Preparing for the birth

You can choose where to give birth. This could be at home, in a public or private hospital or in a birth unit. Learn more about making this choice.

There is usually no shortage of people willing to share their stories about giving birth, but not everything you hear will be true.

In Australia, you have choices about where and how to have your baby. Learn about the many services to help support you whatever your background.

It's normal to experience fear before childbirth. Learn about what causes these feelings, how to manage them and when you might need extra support.

Whether you're planning to have your baby in hospital or at a midwifery-led birth centre, you should get a few things ready at least two weeks before your due date.

Learn how to do a perineal massage to help prepare you having a baby.

Thinking ahead about your birth preferences helps you prepare, make informed choices, and feel confident and supported during labour and birth.

Perineal massage is used in late pregnancy to help stretch the perineum. It aims to reduce the risk of tears when giving birth. Read about risks and benefits.

A birth support partner can benefit both parent and baby. Learn how to choose the right person and how to provide good support at the birth.

During childbirth, your body's hormones, ligaments and muscles, as well as the shape of your pelvis, all work together to bring your baby safely into the world.

Freebirth is when you choose to have your baby without a midwife or other medical help. Make a plan for what to do if something goes wrong.

Birthing centres are usually more home-like than hospitals. Birthing centres are run by midwives and some offer water birth. Find out what to expect.

You can choose to have your baby in a public or private hospital. Both will provide quality care. Find out how to book in and who will care for you.

Use this handy checklist to have your birth bag ready for when it's time to go to the hospital or birth centre.