Week-by-week Pregnancy (Weeks 14-26)
Bundoo® • January 2, 2019 • 5 min read
1. Week 14
Welcome to the second trimester (visit the first trimester here)! Around week 14, you may start to experience round ligament pain, which doesn’t put you or your baby in danger but does cause a lot of discomforts.
Right now, your baby has moved from being curled up in a ball to stretching out and you’ll be able to see a more normal-sized head.
Read more about week 14.
2. Week 15
It’s ok if you’ve made it to week 15 and you have barely gained any weight. Some women even lose weight early on in their pregnancies. Weight gain in pregnancy should be gradual but doesn’t necessarily mean it’ll be clockwork.
You may have more trouble sleeping around this time. Try using a body pillow and work on getting plenty of moderate exercises.
Read more about week 15.
3. Week 16
Old wives’ tales may start creeping up around you and how to determine the sex of your baby.
There are only a few ways to tell the sex, and they are all up to your doctor. They include ultrasound, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) blood tests, and sampling the placenta or amniotic fluid via chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis.
Read more about week 16.
4. Ad
5. Week 17
At week 17, you may start to experience increased vaginal discharge called leukorrhea. This is actually totally normal during pregnancy. If the discharge is a heavy yellow or green, itches or burns, or smells foul, it might signal an infection, and you should alert your healthcare provider.
Your baby’s fingerprints are starting to form this week and chances are they are waving their hands in front of their face.
Read more about week 17.
6. Week 18
With the increase in back pain and aches, you may want to consider a prenatal massage. Be sure to take plenty of sit down breaks and if necessary, painkillers like acetaminophen should help. Continue to take your prenatal vitamins.
Your baby’s ears and eyes have moved to their final positions and fingernails have formed. The nervous system is developing now.
Read more about week 18.
7. Week 19
Depending on your frame size, you may have gained nearly 15 pounds by now (although every woman is different). About half a pound is just your baby, while 6-7 ounces is your placenta. Your uterus and amniotic fluid are roughly 1.5 pounds.
Do you get dizzy easily? It’s probably due to low blood pressure—meaning the brain gets less blood. Try wearing compression socks to help lessen the amount of blood going to your legs.
Read more about week 19.
8. Week 20
Do you have the “pregnancy glow”? It comes from pregnancy hormones and increased blood volume. Due to the extra loads of progesterone, which helps fight off acne.
While pregnant, your normal hair loss is interrupted and dramatically decreases while your hair continues to grow. Chances are your hair is fuller, shinier, and longer.
Read more about week 20.
9. Week 21
Are you starting to see stretch marks? Some women are more likely to get them than others. Chances are if your mom had them, you will, too. Don’t waste your time on treatments or creams. There’s no proof they work!
Your baby may be getting into his or her own rhythm. Unfortunately, their awake time may be your regular sleep time. The taste buds are fully formed and functioning! Studies have shown that babies who are exposed to a wide variety of flavors in the womb are more likely to be adventurous eaters as kids.
Read more about week 21.
10. Week 22
You’re now more than halfway to the finish line! By now you’re probably experiencing new aches and pains every few days. If it’s not back pain, it’s leg cramping! Be sure to drink plenty of water, and try eating a few smaller meals.
What about sex? From a physical point a view, it’s totally normal to have sex while pregnant and is not a risk to you or your baby.
Read more about week 22.
11. Week 23
The second trimester is winding down and you may start to see even more changes to your growing belly, like the “belly line,” increased swelling, and moodiness.
Don’t worry about that nesting instinct. You’ll have that nursery and birth plan done soon enough. Decide on cord blood banking, a living will, and even a college savings account.
Read more about week 23.
12. Week 24
Can you believe you’ve already been pregnant for six months? Has your “innie” belly button become an “outtie” yet?
Your uterus is about the size of a soccer ball and it’s common for many new moms to start worrying as the pregnancy goes on. Anxiety is normal, but it’s estimated that 20 percent of pregnant women face depression in some form. If this is you, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately.
Read more in week 24.
13. Week 25
Around this time, your healthcare provider will request a glucose test to determine your blood sugar level and to see if you are at risk for gestational diabetes, which can affect up to 10 percent of pregnant women.
The good news is that it can be controlled through regular dieting and exercise. The bad news is that untreated gestational diabetes can lead to premature delivery and an increased risk of health complications in your baby.
Read more about week 25.
14. Week 26
You may not get any new symptoms but the ones you have are sure to intensify. Expect aches and pains in your joints and muscles, headaches, cramps, and insomnia.
If you’re still building that nursery, make sure you’re up to date on all the current safety recommendations for cribs, changing tables, infant car seats, strollers, and other items your baby will need.
Read more about week 26.
See what happens in the third trimester.
15. Third Trimester
Welcome to the third trimester! Want to know what is happening in week 27 and beyond? Check out the third-trimester slideshow.
Powered by Bundoo®
Download the Nabta App
Related Articles
9 Natural Induction Methods Examined: What Does the Evidence Say?
Towards the end of [pregnancies](https://nabtahealth.com/article/ectopic-pregnancies-why-do-they-happen/), many women try methods of natural induction. The evidence supporting various traditional methods is variable, and benefits, side effects, and notable potential health risks are present. Understanding what science says can help individuals make informed choices in consultation with a provider. Induction of Natural Labour induction Myths, Realities and Precautions ---------------------------------------------------------------------- The following section will review nine standard natural induction methods, discussing the proposed mechanism, evidence, and safety considerations. Avoid potential hazards by avoiding risky labor triggers and get advice from your [obstetrician](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/obstetrician/) before choosing any method mentioned below. Castor Oil ---------- Castor oil has been used throughout the centuries to induce labor, and studies suggest that it does so on some 58% of occasions. This oil stimulates prostaglandin release, which in turn may have the result of inducing cervical changes. Adverse effects, such as nausea and [diarrhea](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diarrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20352241), are common, however. Castor oil should be used near the [due date](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/due-date/) and with extreme caution, given its contraindication earlier in pregnancy. Breast Stimulation ------------------ The historical and scientific backing of breast stimulation is based on the release of oxytocin to soften the [cervix](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/cervix/). A study has shown that, with this method, cervical ripening may be achieved in about 37% of cases. However, excessive stimulation may cause uterine hyperstimulation, and guidance from professionals may be essential. Red Raspberry Leaf ------------------ Red raspberry leaf is generally taken as a tea and is thought to enhance blood flow to the [uterus](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/uterus/) and stimulate [contractions](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/contraction/). Traditional use, however, is tempered by a relative lack of scientific research regarding its effectiveness. Animal studies have suggested possible adverse side effects, and no human data are available that supports a correlation with successful induction of labor. Sex --- Sex is most commonly advised as a natural induction method based on the principle that sex introduces [prostaglandins](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/prostaglandins/) and oxytocin, and orgasm induces uterine [contractions](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/contraction/). The few studies in the literature report no significant effect on labor timing. Generally safe for women when pregnancy is otherwise low-risk but may not speed labor. Acupuncture ----------- Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice that has been done to stimulate labor through the induction of hormonal responses. However, some studies show its effectiveness in improving cervical ripening but not necessarily inducing active labor. An experienced practitioner would appropriately consult its safe application during pregnancy. Blue and Black Cohosh --------------------- Native American groups traditionally utilize blue and black cohosh plants for gynecological use. These plants are highly discouraged nowadays from inducing labor because of the risk of toxicity they may bring. Although they establish substantial [contractions](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/contraction/), they have been observed to sometimes cause extreme complications-possibly congenital disabilities and heart problems in newborns Dates ----- Some cultural beliefs view dates as helping induce labor by stimulating the release of oxytocin. They do not help stimulate uterine [contractions](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/contraction/) to start labor, but clinical research does support that dates support cervical [dilation](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/dilation/) and reduce the need for medical inductions during labor. They also support less hemorrhaging post-delivery when consumed later in pregnancy. Pineapple --------- Something in pineapple called bromelain is an [enzyme](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/enzyme/) that is supposed to stimulate [contractions](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/contraction/) of the [uterus](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/uterus/). Animal tissue studies have determined it would only work if applied directly to the tissue, so it’s doubtful this is a natural method for inducing labor. Evening Primrose Oil -------------------- Evening Primrose Oil, taken almost exclusively in capsule form, is another common naturopathic remedy to ripen the [cervix](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/cervix/). Still, studies are very few and indicate a greater risk of labor complications, such as intervention during delivery, and it is not recommended very often. Safety and Consultation ----------------------- Many of these methods are extremely popular; however, most are unsupported by scientific data. Any method should be discussed with a healthcare provider because all may be contraindicated depending on gestational age, maternal health, and pregnancy risk levels. Try going for a walk, have a warm bath and relax while you’re waiting for your baby. “Optimal fetal positioning,” can help baby to come into a better position to support labor. You can try sitting upright and leaning forward by sitting on a chair backward. Conclusion ---------- Natural methods of inducing labor vary widely in efficacy and safety. Practices like breast stimulation and dates confer some benefits, while others, such as those involving castor oil and blue cohosh, carry risks. Based on the available evidence, decisions about labor induction through healthcare providers are usually the safest. You can track your menstrual cycle and get [personalised support by using the Nabta app](https://nabtahealth.com/nabta-app/). Get in touch if you have any questions about this article or any aspect of women’s health. We’re here for you. Sources : 1.S. M. Okun, R. A. Lydon-Rochelle, and L. L. Sampson, “Effect of Castor Oil on Induction of Labor: A Systematic Review,” Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, 2023. 2.T. K. Ford, H. H. Snell, “Effectiveness of Breast Stimulation for Cervical Ripening and Labor Induction: A Review of the Literature,” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2023. 3.R. E. Smith, D. M. Wilson, “Red Raspberry Leaf and Its Role in Pregnancy and Labor: A Critical Review,” Alternative Medicine Journal, 2024. 4.A. L. Jameson, “Sexual Activity and Its Effect on Labor Induction: A Review,” International Journal of Obstetrics, 2023. 5.B. C. Zhang, Z. W. Lin, “Acupuncture as a Method for Labor Induction: Evidence from Recent Clinical Trials,” Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2023. 6.D. K. Patel, J. M. Williams, “Toxicity of Blue and Black Cohosh in Pregnancy: Case Studies and Clinical Guidelines,” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2024. 7.M. J. Abdullah, F. E. Azzam, “The Role of Dates in Pregnancy: A Review of Effects on Labor and Birth Outcomes,” Nutrition in Pregnancy, 2024. 8.S. L. Chung, L. M. Harrison, “Pineapple and Its Potential Role in Labor Induction: A Review,” Journal of Obstetric and [Perinatal](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/perinatal/) Research, 2023. 9.L. M. Weston, A. R. Franklin, “Evening Primrose Oil for Labor Induction: A Comprehensive Review,” Journal of Alternative Therapies in Pregnancy, 2024. Patient Information Induction of labour Women’s Services. (n.d.). Retrieved November 9, 2024, from https://www.enherts-tr.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Induction-of-Labour-v5-09.2020-web.pdf
Is Performing a C-Section Better Than Inducing Labour? [2024]
Is Performing a C-Section Better Than Inducing Labour, when it comes to giving birth, usually the preferred option is to let labour proceed naturally. However, there are times when it is not in the mother or baby’s interest for this to happen. When the health of either is at risk, or if gestation has exceeded [41 weeks duration,](https://nabtahealth.com/articles/doctor-tips-weeks-27-40/) then it is highly probable that an alternative strategy will need to be implemented. There are two options available, [inducing labour](../) or performing a [C-section](../). With an induction, the [uterus](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/uterus/) is artificially stimulated to contract, and it is then hoped that labour will proceed as per a natural delivery. In contrast, a C-section is a surgical procedure, whereby a cut is made in the abdomen and the baby is removed that way, rather than via the [vagina](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/vagina/). Sometimes the only safe option is to perform a C-section, for example if the baby is breach, or when an emergency situation arises. However, there are other times when you may be presented with a choice and if this happens, what is the correct answer? Unfortunately there is no definitive right answer. An induction can be at least as safe as spontaneous labour and, if performed in the week prior to the [due date](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/due-date/), it is thought to reduce [the risk of](https://nabtahealth.com/articles/what-is-preeclampsia/) [preeclampsia](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/preeclampsia/) in the mother and respiratory distress in the child, possibly as a result of the [placenta](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/placenta/) remaining fully functional. Unlike C-sections, inductions are not surgical procedures and thus, if all goes to plan, the recovery period is shorter. It is however, a big ‘IF’. [Induced labours](https://nabtahealth.com/articles/induction-of-labour/) are typically more painful, meaning more women will request stronger pain relief including epidurals, and there is a greater likelihood of assisted delivery, such as the use of forceps or ventouse. There is also an increased [risk of hyperstimulation](https://nabtahealth.com/articles/what-is-ovarian-drilling/) of the [uterus](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/uterus/)., Uterine hyperstimulation causes more frequent, longer [contractions](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/contraction/), which can [lead](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/lead/) to complications such as foetal heart rate abnormalities and, in rare cases, uterine rupture. In a significant number of women, induction does not work and a C-section becomes necessary. The advent of the C-section was undoubtedly a medical revolution, instantly saving the lives of millions of women and children. However, C-sections bring with them all the risks of regular surgery, including blood clots, wound infection and bleeding. The recovery period is typically longer after a C-section than after a natural birth, driving restrictions are enforced and a scar remains, although this will fade over time. Whilst current guidelines stipulate that an induction should only be performed when [the risks of continuing the pregnancy](https://nabtahealth.com/articles/complications-during-pregnancy-polyhydramnios/) outweighs the benefits, with more women than ever requesting elective C-sections, the World Health Organisation has highlighted an urgent need for medical assessment efforts to address the risks of induced labour compared to elective C-section. Until such work is undertaken, it becomes a matter of individual circumstance, personal choice and ultimately weighing up what is best for you and your baby. **Sources:** * Grobman, W A, et al. “Labor Induction versus Expectant Management in Low-Risk Nulliparous Women.” _The New England Journal of Medicine_, vol. 379, no. 6, 9 Aug. 2018, pp. 513–523., doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1800566. * WHO Recommendations for Induction of Labour. World Health Organisation, [http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/44531/9789241501156\_eng.pdf?sequence=1](http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/44531/9789241501156_eng.pdf?sequence=1). Accessed on 23/01/2019. * _Inducing Labour. Clinical Guideline \[CG70\]_. NICE (National Institute for Care and Health Excellence), July 2008, www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg70/chapter/Introduction. Accessed on 23/01/2019
Everything you Need to Know About Hypnobirthing
* Jasmine Collin from [Love Parenting UAE](https://www.loveparentinguae.com/), Nabta Health’s hypnotherapy partner, takes us through her guide to all things Hypnobirthing. * Learn how Hypnobirthing supports natural birth, reducing pain and creating an optimal environment during labour. * Nabta’s aim to empower women to reach their health goals as naturally as possible is very much in line with Jasmine’s approach and the benefits of hypnotherapy in labour. * Book Jasmine’s popular online Hypnobirthing course [here.](https://nabtahealth.com/product/the-love-birthing-hypnobirthing-course/) You may have heard of hypnobirthing due to its increasing popularity with expecting parents and [celebrities such as Jessica Alba and Angelina Jolie.](https://www.madeformums.com/pregnancy/celebrity-mums-who-used-hypnotherapy-in-labour/) It’s even been suggested that royal family members, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle used it to prepare for their births – but what exactly is it and why are so many women turning to Hypnobirthing? **What is Hypnobirthing?** Hypnobirthing is a childbirth preparation method taken as a set of weekly classes either in groups or privately, any time between 20-35 weeks of pregnancy. There are lots of styles of Hypnobirthing available today but they all originate from the Mongan Method, which is over 30 years old. There are also online Hypnobirthing classes available too There are a lot of [misconceptions as to what Hypnobirthing](https://www.loveparentinguae.com/single-post/2019/10/07/why-there-is-no-such-thing-as-a-hypnobirth) is and the type of person who chooses it. Many think it’s just for hippy types wanting a home or [water birth](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/water-birth/) or those seemingly crazy women who want to do it without pain relief, but the truth is, all women can use it to have a calmer more positive birth experience, no matter what birth they choose or what path it takes. **What is the aim of Hypnobirthing?** One of the aims of Hypnobirthing is to support and increase the likelihood of physiological birth with the least amount of chemicals and interventions wherever possible. However if drugs or medical interventions are truly needed it enables the couple to remain calm and make informed evidence based decisions for themselves and their baby. #### **What are the benefits of natural physiological birth?** Studies have shown us that women and babies who have natural physiological births benefit from better health outcomes, adjustment to life outside the womb, emotional satisfaction with the birth experience and being able to cope well with the transition to motherhood. Read more about [physiological birth](http://www.birthtools.org/What-Is-Physiologic-Birth) and its benefits for families and society as a whole. Hypnobirthing promotes births that mirror nature as closely as possible so that babies and families can get off to the best start possible. #### **What if natural birth is not possible?** Unfortunately, natural physiological birth is not always possible in our current birth culture. There are a large number of influencing factors that we can’t control and birth can be quite unpredictable. So it’s important to acknowledge the wide range of birthing styles, combinations of drugs, interventions and different experiences that can happen, so we can fully prepare couples for all eventualities. The great news is that the knowledge and techniques learnt in Hypnobirthing classes are applicable in all situations and in all types of birth. In fact the tools can be even more useful in assisted births like C- sections, epidurals and inductions etc. because they keep the mother and baby calm during potentially more stressful events. #### **Real Hypnobirthing stories** Here are a few birth stories from parents who had all types of birthing experiences and how Hypnobirthing helped them through. [The induction for](https://babyandchild.ae/uae-birth-guide/article/1523/labour-was-more-powerful-and-beautiful-than-i-could-have-imagined) [gestational diabetes](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/gestational-diabetes/) one [The induction and low](https://www.jasminecollin.com/single-post/2019/05/06/Taylors-Birth---A-calm-positive-tale-of-thrombocytopenia-induction-low-fluid-and-more) [amniotic fluid](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/amniotic-fluid/) one [The planned gentle C-section one](https://www.jasminecollin.com/single-post/2017/04/16/Hanis-Birth---A-Family-Centred-Cesarean) [The one with no progress](https://www.jasminecollin.com/single-post/2017/05/04/Charleys-Birth) [The big baby one](https://babyandchild.ae/uae-birth-guide/birth-stories/article/1372/how-hypnobirthing-helped-me-give-birth-to-my-5kg-baby-drug-free) [The unplanned C-section one](https://www.jasminecollin.com/single-post/2015/05/10/10-Healthy-Foods-That-Calm-DeStress) [The VBA2C (Vaginal Birth after 2 C sections) one](https://www.jasminecollin.com/single-post/2017/04/23/Marsels-Birth---A-VBA2C-Story) [The planned vaginal](https://www.jasminecollin.com/single-post/2017/08/13/Phoenix-Willows-Breech-Birth) [breech](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/breech/) one [The unplanned vaginal](https://www.jasminecollin.com/single-post/2017/01/26/Georges-Breech-Birth) [breech](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/breech/) one As you can read in the birth stories, Hypnobirthing can benefit mothers and babies in all situations – but it’s not just them that benefit. Let’s not forget the partners. These days’ partners are not just welcome in the delivery room; they are expected to support the mother during labour and birth. However, without adequate training this can throw them into an environment and situation that they are not adequately prepared for. In Hypnobirthing classes partners gain invaluable knowledge and skills that they can apply in the birthing room to ensure a positive birth experience for the mother, baby and themselves. And the benefits don’t just stop in the birthing room. Lots of couples continue to use the tools for relaxing the mind and body long after the birth is over. Read- [7 surprising reasons to do Hypnobirthing that have nothing to do with birth](http://www.loveparentinguae.com/single-post/2017/08/02/7-Surprising-Reasons-To-Do-Hypnobirthing-Classes-That-Have-Nothing-To-Do-With-Birth) #### **So how does Hypnobirthing work exactly?** **During pregnancy** It empowers couples with the knowledge and belief that women’s bodies are designed to grow and birth their babies and that childbirth is a natural physiological process. It promotes healthy nutrition and physical exercise in pregnancy as being key factors in having a safe and easier birth as well sharing top tips on how to get the baby into the optimal position for birthing. Like any big physical event such as running a marathon or climbing a mountain, it’s not just physical preparation that makes the difference. Yes, physical fitness plays a big part, but a positive mindset and being emotional fit is just as important, and this is where Hypnobirthing comes in. Hypnobirthing de-hypnotises couples from all the negative information and fear that they’ve been conditioned with all their lives and updates their mindset through guided visualisations, affirmations and fear release work, all while they are very deeply relaxed or ‘in hypnosis’. Being in a natural state of hypnosis, promotes deep relaxation and being open to suggestion, so during pregnancy we can give the mind set an upgrade by accessing the sub conscious mind and reprograming it with more positive beliefs, thoughts and feelings about birth. When pregnant woman are calm and feel fully supported, their babies, who are literally swimming in their emotions, also feel the benefits. During classes there is also a focus on pre birth family bonding and this helps couples to adjust to their new roles and embrace early parenthood more easily. #### **Hypnobirthing during labour & birth** When a woman goes into labour with less fear and more understanding of how her body works and what it’s doing at each stage she can accept it more easily and experience it in a more positive way. When she relaxes and welcomes the sensations, rather than fighting them, they can then become easier to manage. Practically speaking Hypnobirthing teaches couples how to maximize the normal physiological birth process by creating the optimal environment for birth. Humans are biologically programmed in the same way that all mammals are and our birth environment needs are very similar. All mammals birth more easily in safe, warm, dark, private, quiet and undisturbed settings where there is no rush and no feeling of being watched or observed. In this ideal setting the perfect and natural combination of birthing hormones can be released and labour can progress. If however there is any sense of a potential threat or disturbance, our fight or flight response can release hormones that will slow or even stop labour. Even a bright light or a cold room is enough to slow down labour. It’s not always possible to control the external environment though, for example when driving to the hospital or in a typical hospital room, where it’s normally bright, busy and rushed, with lots of observation, disturbances and possible fear triggers. Hypnobirthing skills are crucial in these less than optimal settings because they enable the mother to create a calm and resourceful internal mental state. Using her practiced breathing, visualisations, affirmations and hypnosis she can bring her body and mind into a deep state of relaxation as if she were in the ideal environment. The body cannot tell the difference between real and imagined, so she can use this mind-body hack to convince her body that it’s a safe space and a good time to be birthing her baby. The body then continues releasing the perfect cocktail of hormones for a quicker, easier and more natural birth. #### But what about the pain? A birthing mother automatically reduces pain by being calmer and less frightened of the birth, and in calm, safe settings the birthing body naturally produces [endorphins](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/endorphins/), our own natural pain relief, to help us cope with the intense physical sensations. In addition, Hypnobirthing mums can use hypnosis to disrupt and change the way that their brain processes pain signals. They also learn mental coping strategies and physical comfort tools to deal with any discomfort that they feel. All these factors make it less likely that they will need pain relieving drugs or unnecessary interventions and they tend to have more straightforward and quicker labours. Of course if a woman is struggling then there is a selection of pain relieving drugs that the hospital can offer. The aim of Hypnobirthing however is to ensure the couple have a complete toolbox of skills and techniques that they can utilize before getting to that point, so that it can be delayed or avoided all together. But, no matter how a baby is born or whatever interventions or drugs are used, the most important elements for every birthing mother are that: * She feels calm, safe, and supported throughout. * She feels that she did her best and gave it all she had. * She feels treated with dignity and respect. * And she was able to make her own informed choices about her baby, body and birth, every step of the way. These are the key ingredients to a positive birth experience and what Hypnobirthing is all about. Surely every mother and her family deserves this birth experience…not just the hippies. \_\_\_\_\_ Jasmine Collin is a mother of two, a qualified Hypnotherapist, NLP Practitioner, Childbirth Educator and Doula who specialises in Hypnobirthing and Parenting Originally from the UK she is the longest running teacher in the UAE and has been teaching her award winning ‘Love Birthing’ classes since 2009. She is the co founder of Love Parenting UAE, winner of the 2018 Time Out Kids Award for ‘Special recognition for pre and post natal care’ and is dedicated to helping couples have calmer, more positive births so that they can ‘Love Birthing’ no matter what kind of birth they choose or what path birth takes. For more information contact: [\[email protected\]](/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection) You can book Jasmine’s popular online Hypnobirthing services on the [Nabta Women’s Health Shop.](https://nabtahealth.com/product/the-love-birthing-hypnobirthing-course/) \_\_\_ Nabta is reshaping women’s healthcare. We support women with their personal health journeys, from everyday wellbeing to the uniquely female experiences of fertility, pregnancy, and [](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary)[menopause](https://nabtahealth.com/glossary/menopause/). You can track your menstrual cycle and get [personalised support by using the Nabta app.](https://nabtahealth.com/our-platform/nabta-app/) Get in [touch](/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#acd5cdc0c0cdecc2cdced8cdc4c9cdc0d8c482cfc3c1) if you have any questions about this article or any aspect of women’s health. We’re here for you.