During the second trimester, it often becomes more visible that something is happening in your body, as your belly grows with your baby’s rapid development. Through routine ultrasound scans, you’ll be able to follow your baby’s growth. Many women find the second trimester to be the most comfortable stage of pregnancy.

Trimester 2

If prenatal screening tests such as first-trimester screening (combined screening) or NIPT (noninvasive prenatal testing) suggest an increased chance of a chromosomal condition, your healthcare provider will usually recommend diagnostic testing.

Diagnostic tests can confirm whether a condition is present. These tests involve sampling placental tissue or amniotic fluid and carry a small risk of miscarriage (generally less than 1%).

## Types of follow-up tests:

### Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) 
CVS is typically performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.

A healthcare provider uses a thin needle (through the abdomen) or a catheter (through the cervix) to collect a small sample of placental tissue. This sample is analyzed for chromosomal conditions such as:

- Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
- Trisomy 18
- Trisomy 13

Results are often available within a few days to 2 weeks.

CVS carries a small risk of miscarriage, generally estimated at less than 1%. Mild cramping may occur afterward, and your provider may recommend taking it easy for the rest of the day.

### Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is usually performed from 15 weeks of pregnancy or later. A thin needle is inserted through the abdomen to collect a small amount of amniotic fluid. The body naturally replaces this fluid within a few days.

The sample is analyzed for chromosomal conditions and certain genetic disorders. Results typically take 1–2 weeks.

As with CVS, there is a small risk of miscarriage (generally less than 1%). Mild cramping after the procedure is common.

### Growth ultrasounds
Additional ultrasounds may be recommended to monitor your baby’s growth and development.
These scans estimate fetal size and compare it to expected growth for gestational age. They may be recommended if:

- you previously had a baby with growth restriction
- you have a medical condition that could affect fetal growth measurements during pregnancy differ from expected

If performed once, this is called an estimated fetal weight assessment. When repeated, it allows providers to track growth over time. Blood flow (Doppler studies) and amniotic fluid levels may also be evaluated.

*Sources:* 
- [ACOG: Prenatal Genetic Diagnostic Tests (CVS & Amniocentesis)](https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/prenatal-genetic-diagnostic-tests)
- [CDC: Prenatal Testing Overview](https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/prenataltesting.html)
- [Mayo Clinic – Amniocentesis](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/amniocentesis/about/pac-20392914)
- [Mayo Clinic: Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/chorionic-villus-sampling/about/pac-20393677)

If prenatal screening tests such as first-trimester screening (combined screening) or NIPT (noninvas...

Fetal diagnostics – Follow up

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What should you buy before your baby is born—and what can wait? You’ll likely get lots of advice from friends, family members, and brands. With so many recommendations, it’s easy to end up buying things that later turn out not to be necessary.

## Every baby is different
Just like every pregnancy is unique, every baby is different too. A second baby might love the carrier even if the first one never did. That’s why it’s helpful to remember that with most baby gear, there’s no way to know ahead of time whether your baby will like it or need it.

### Here’s a breakdown of what can be helpful—and what you don’t need to stress about buying right away:

__Things that can be helpful to have__
- A safe place for the baby to sleep
- Sleep sack
- Blankets
- Baby carrier or wrap
- Baby monitor
- Soft towels
- Diapers
- Reusable cloth wipes
- Cotton swabs
- Saline drops or spray (for a stuffy nose)
- Ear thermometer

__Things you don’t need to buy before the baby is born__
- Baby bouncer
- Diaper pail
- Baby play gym
- Baby bathtub
- Diaper bag (a backpack you already own often works just fine)
- Portable changing pad
- Baby lotions and creams
- Nursing pillow (regular pillows usually work well in the beginning)
- Toys
- Crib mobile

## What really matters
- Stroller
- Infant car seat (if you have a car)
- Diapers
- Clothes for the baby
- A safe place for the baby to sleep

## Buy as you go
Not every baby needs everything that’s available on the market, and you can always buy items later if and when the need arises. There are often simpler or more affordable alternatives, both new and second-hand. You may even be able to borrow items from friends or family to see what works best for you before making a purchase.

At the end of the day, you decide what feels right for you and your family. Try to base your choices on your own preferences and lifestyle. Either way, it can be comforting to know that very little is truly essential in the beginning.

What should you buy before your baby is born—and what can wait? You’ll likely get lots of advice fro...

What does a newborn really need?

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Buying your first stroller can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it helps to focus on what matters most—how you’ll use it, what features you need, and which stroller fits your lifestyle and your baby best.

Doing some research before you buy can help you understand which models are well reviewed, which meet your expectations, and which ones might not be the right match after all.

## What are your needs?
Start by thinking about how and where you’ll use your stroller:

- Will you take long walks on trails or in parks?
- Do you live in an area with snow or rough terrain?
- Will you travel frequently?
- Will you need to fly with your stroller?
- Will you mainly use it for errands in the city or on gravel paths and suburban roads?
- Will you use public transportation often?
- Do you have a small trunk the stroller needs to fit into?
- If you live in an apartment—will you need to carry the stroller upstairs or fit it into an elevator?

## Types of strollers
One of the biggest differences between strollers is the wheel design. There are strollers with four fixed wheels, strollers with two swivel wheels in front and fixed wheels in back, and three-wheel strollers with a large swivel wheel in front.

__Traditional four-wheel strollers__ with fixed wheels are usually very stable and comfortable. They often have good suspension and handle uneven surfaces and snow well. The downside is that they’re often heavier and bulkier, making them harder to maneuver in tight spaces or lift into a car.

__Three-wheel strollers__ are popular for parents who want a balance between agility and performance on different surfaces. They’re easy to steer but slightly less stable than four-wheel strollers and may not perform as well in snow.

__Four-wheel strollers with swivel front wheels__ are lightweight and easy to maneuver, especially in urban settings. However, small wheels can struggle on gravel, snow, and uneven ground.

## Wheel types
There are four main wheel types:

__Air-filled tires__ provide great suspension and traction but can puncture and need occasional inflation.

__Foam-filled rubber wheels__ don’t puncture and require little maintenance, though they’re firmer and heavier.

__EVA wheels__ are lightweight and puncture-proof but tend to wear out faster.

__PU wheels__ are durable, puncture-proof, and softer than EVA wheels, though slightly heavier.

## Handlebar types
Strollers typically come with three handlebar styles:

- Fixed handlebars that don’t adjust
- Pivoting handlebars that move up and down
- Telescoping handlebars that extend outward, making them ideal for taller parents

If you frequently use public transportation, a pivoting handlebar can make the stroller more compact when folded.

## Bassinet, seat, and stroller systems
To use a stroller with a newborn, you’ll need a bassinet or a stroller that allows the baby to lie fully flat. Many parents choose a travel system, which includes a stroller frame and an infant car seat.

Separate bassinets tend to be more spacious and breathable, while soft carry inserts are easier to lift and transport, especially if you need to leave the stroller in a shared space.

## Parent-facing or forward-facing?
Many babies start wanting to sit up and look around around 4–5 months of age. Even so, many parents prefer keeping their baby parent-facing longer, as young babies can become overstimulated and often feel more secure when they can see their caregiver.

If this is important to you, look for a stroller with a reversible seat.

## Folding and portability
Strollers fold in many different ways. Some require removing or repositioning the seat before folding, while others fold with the seat attached. Folding with a bassinet attached is uncommon.
Think about how easy the folding process feels and how compact the stroller needs to be for your car or storage space.

## Infant car seat compatibility
Many strollers allow you to attach an infant car seat directly to the frame using adapters. This is especially helpful for short trips and errands, as it lets your baby continue sleeping. For longer periods, however, babies should lie flat in a bassinet rather than staying in a car seat.

## Storage basket
If you’ll be carrying groceries or other items, check the size and weight limit of the storage basket. Fabric baskets are good for keeping items clean, while metal baskets tend to hold heavier loads more securely.

## Narrowing down your choices
After testing strollers in-store, try narrowing your options down to one to three models. Some parents prioritize style, others specific features. Size, weight, and resale value may also influence your decision.

There’s no single right choice—the best stroller is one that’s safe for your baby and fits seamlessly into your daily life.

Buying your first stroller can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it helps to focus ...

The Ultimate Stroller Guide

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Pregnancy is often a gradual journey, where the relationship with your baby grows as time goes on. Some parents feel a sense of connection early on, while for others it develops later — and both are completely normal. Building a relationship with your baby during pregnancy can be a gentle way to prepare for parenthood. Feeling curious about the baby growing inside you, and wondering who they might be, can also make it easier to recognise and understand your child once they are born.

## Let your imagination lead
One way to connect with your baby during pregnancy is to allow space for imagination and curiosity. Who is this little person? Will the baby look like me? What might they be trying to tell me when they move? Many parents choose to talk to their baby or sing to them. Your baby is already an individual, with their own personality beginning to take shape.

## If curiosity doesn’t come easily
Some expectant parents notice that they don’t feel especially curious about their baby during pregnancy, or that they don’t think about them very much. According to Eva Lyberg, a psychologist and psychotherapist specialising in attachment, this can be linked to different kinds of stress — in life in general or related to the pregnancy itself. It can also be connected to worry. If you’ve had difficult experiences with pregnancy before, you may find it hard to allow yourself to believe that everything will go well this time.

In these situations, it can help to gently work on building a sense of trust, safety, and openness towards the baby. One place to start is by asking yourself curious, open questions. Who might this baby be? Are there personality traits they might inherit from you or the other parent? How do they feel in the womb — calm and thoughtful, or active and eager to explore? Try listening inward, noticing, and letting your imagination fill in the gaps.

## Getting support to build connection
If you find it difficult to think about your baby or imagine who they are, it may be helpful to seek support during pregnancy. After birth, life often becomes busy and demanding, and it can be harder to find time for reflection. Developing a connection during pregnancy can make it easier to understand your baby’s cues after they are born and help you feel more confident in being a safe and steady presence for your child.

Midwives can often help guide you to appropriate support, and many maternity services offer access to counsellors or psychologists. Remember that many people experience these feelings during pregnancy — you are not alone. Talking about it with your midwife can help you get the right support at the right time. With support, most people find their own way to begin building a relationship with their baby, even before birth.

Pregnancy is often a gradual journey, where the relationship with your baby grows as time goes on. S...

Getting to know your baby

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Some reminders about bleeding
- bleeding is common in early pregnancy and does not necessarily mean there is a problem.
- it is not always possible to find the cause of the bleeding.
- there is nothing you can do to prevent bleeding.

### Check the color!
- fresh bleeding is light red to dark red.
- reddish brown bleeding means that the bleeding started earlier and has ended.

### Check the volume!
- bleeding is considered heavy when you saturate a pad in one hour or if you experience clotting. 
- if you are spotting and feel well otherwise, you do not need to seek emergency medical care. However, most healthcare providers in the US recommend that you contact your prenatal clinic/maternity clinic  for advice if you experience any bleeding after week 12 for further evaluation.  

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, seek emergency care immediately:
- if you are bleeding, regardless of the volume, and have severe abdominal pain, either on one side or your lower abdomen.
- if you are bleeding, regardless of the volume, and feel generally unwell (you feel ill, faint, dizzy and tired)
- if you are bleeding to such a degree that you soak through a pad in one hour or if you experience clotting. 

### Bleeding between weeks 12+0 – 21+6 can have several causes:

- Spotting after sexual intercourse, also called post coital spotting. The cervix is more likely to bleed during pregnancy so it’s common to have spotting or blood mixed discharge after sexual intercourse (looks like a dark reddish-brown discharge the day after). There is no reason to be alarmed. 

- Hydatidiform mole, or “mole”, can cause heavy menstruation-like bleeding. This is not a pregnancy but a cluster of swollen cysts that show a positive result in a pregnancy test due to the increase in hormones. It can be seen in an ultrasound. A hydatidiform mole must be surgically removed through a minor procedure involving a scraping.

- Infection bleedings are typically caused by a bacterial infection in the vagina or cervix, often combined with heavy and/or foul-smelling discharge and are treated with antibiotics. Always notify your midwife if you notice a change in your discharge (volume, appearance and odor smell).

- Polyp bleedings. A cervical polyp is usually a harmless benign growth on the cervix that bleeds easily. Occasionally, these need to be removed through a simple surgical procedure. 

- Cell changes. Uncommon in pregnant women, but bleeding from the cervix may be a sign of cervical cancer. Treatment to remove the cancer is possible during pregnancy, but the treatment must be modified from case to case depending on how far along the woman is in her pregnancy.

- Placenta previa is when the placenta is attached to the uterus down toward the cervix. The placenta can either partially or totally cover the cervix. Bleeding is a common complication of placenta previa, particularly when the baby in the uterus grows and the pressure on the placenta increases. The position of the placenta inside the uterus can be seen during a routine ultrasound examination done between weeks 18 and 20. If the placenta is far down during the first ultrasound, more ultrasounds will be performed during your pregnancy to monitor its position. Some women need to be admitted to the hospital for bleeding observations once or more frequently during pregnancy if the placenta is partially or fully covering the cervix. Medication may be necessary to help the blood coagulate faster and stop the bleeding. Normally, the placenta moves higher up in the uterus as it grows, making vaginal delivery possible. However, if the placenta is partially or fully covering the cervix toward the end of pregnancy, it will be necessary to deliver the baby with a cesarean section. Avoid sexual intercourse during the last part of your pregnancy to reduce the risk of bleeding if the placenta is fully or partially covering the cervix.  Speak with your midwife if you have questions or are worried. 

- Miscarriage bleeding—a more menstruation-like bleeding could be a sign of miscarriage. It is uncommon to have a miscarriage during this phase of pregnancy and the reason is usually because the cervix has not closed as it should or an infection. Before week 22+0, contact the OB/GYN emergency services or hospital emergency department if you are bleeding. Unfortunately, it is not possible to prevent a miscarriage. Taking good care of yourself is all that you can do. Eat well, exercise, rest when you are tired and don’t smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs. Many women miscarry. For most women, a miscarriage is associated with some level of grief that needs to be processed. Your body can also grieve after a miscarriage. Read more about miscarriage under “Miscarriage”.

To determine what is causing bleeding, you will have a pelvic exam and an ultrasound, if necessary.

*Source:*
- *Lärobok för barnmorskor*. Faxelid, E. Course literature 2001.
- *Myles Textbook for Midwives*. Fraser, D. och Cooper, M. Churchill Livingstone 2003.

Bleeding between weeks 12+0 – 21+6

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There are many ways to prepare for giving birth. It can be learning about the phases of childbirth, or about the different tools you can use to deal with pain and fear. But it is also important to prepare mentally for childbirth, and an increasingly common method of doing so is through hypnobirthing.

## What does hypnobirthing mean?
The first descriptions of the Hypnobirthing method came in 1987 and today there are several role models on the subject of natural childbirth. It is also a method that is deeply rooted in science and research. Hypnosis can be compared to daydreaming - or disappearing into something - like watching a movie or being deeply immersed in a good book. It can be similar to ending up in a "flow-like" state. Being in this state helps us to disconnect external factors and reduce stress. This allows the body to do its job and give birth in harmony. 

## Hypnobirthing as a method
Hypnobirthing is a method where you prepare and strengthen yourself mentally before giving birth using various techniques, such as positive thoughts, relaxation, visualization, breathing, concentration and deep relaxation. It is based on your learning to take control of your nervous system and your mental focus. This method is built on the foundation that you dare to disconnect your thoughts and allow the birth to take place. Your body knows what to do.

Part of Hypnobirthing is also understanding how the body functions physiologically, how our bodies are affected by stress and anxiety, and inversely how it is affected through feeling security, peace and harmony. A more positively charged word for pain in hypnobirthing is contractions or waves. Through security, calm and relaxation, hypnobirthing helps to attract the hormones that help the birth process. Oxytocin is the most important hormone and through hypnobirthing, we help the nervous system activate part in us that provides security, peace and harmony.

## How does hypnobirthing work?
What we do know is that women who use hypnobirthing in connection with childbirth use medical pain relief to a lesser extent. But the type of pain relief you choose in connection with childbirth is a choice you make yourself, and there is no value or prestige in it. 

Hypnobirthing can of course be used both with and without medical pain relief. For women who want to give birth without medical pain relief, hypnobirthing is an excellent choice for managing pain. Medical pain relief, such as spinal anaesthesia or epidural, does not in itself provide a more positive experience of the birth. What primarily determines whether the experience becomes positive or negative is more about how you handle the pain, and for pain management, hypnobirthing is a good choice.

Essentially, hypnobirthing is about listening exercises and doing them daily to help yourself set a goal and change your way of looking at the upcoming birth of your baby. During these exercises, you will arrive at a place of deep relaxation. You can also listen to the exercises during the birth. To get the best possible help from hypnobirthing, it is good to start practicing well in advance of birth. The recommendation is to practice every day from week 30 of your pregnancy. It requires a bit of commitment, so do not start too early if you know that you easily get tired or lose motivation. As with all training, the more you practice, the better you become. But of course, it is never too late to start if you want to utilize hypnobirthing. Even little practice is better than none at all.

*Source:*
- Atis FY, Rathfisch G. The effect of hypnobirthing training given in the antenatal period on birth pain and fear. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018 Nov;33:77-84. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2018.08.004. Epub 2018 Aug 18. PMID: 30396631.
- Uludağ E, Mete S. The effect of nursing care provided based on the philosophy of hypnobirthing on fear, pain, duration, satisfaction and cost of labor: a single-blind randomized controlled study. Health Care Women Int. 2021;42(4-6):678-690. doi: 10.1080/07399332.2020.1835916. Epub 2020 Nov 12. PMID: 33179993.

 # What is hypnobirthing - and how can it help me during birth?

What is hypnobirthing - and how can it help me during birth?

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It can be immensely valuable to form a realistic understanding of the actual birth process and then speak with someone you trust. One good way to sort out emotions is to write down your thoughts and expectations in a birth letter. Some choose to write in great detail, and others are more concise. And then there are those who feel that a birth letter is unnecessary. For the midwife, the birth letter provides an opportunity to gain an understanding of your personality as well as what emotions and thoughts you and your partner have about labor.

It can be particularly valuable if you arrive at the birth center/hospital in active labor and have difficulty expressing yourself. The letter can also serve to give you a chance to reflect on your thoughts, and check-in with each other’s expectations on childbirth and on becoming parents. It is important to know that the birth letter is not a contract. A lot can happen during childbirth that will require you and your partner to reassess what is written together with the midwife.

*Sources:*
- Abascal, G., & Huss, M. S. (2018). Att föda. Bonnier Fakta.

It can be immensely valuable to form a realistic understanding of the actual birth process and then ...

Birth letter

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Braxton Hicks are when your uterus contracts and relaxes. Sometimes they are known as false labor pains or practice contractions. Not all women will feel Braxton Hicks contractions. If you do, you’ll usually feel them during the second or third trimester.

Braxton Hicks are completely normal and many women experience them during pregnancy. Your midwife or OB will probably talk to you about them at some point, and you can ask questions at any time. Braxton hicks are different from labor contractions and you will learn more about this in your childbirth classes, but we have included some guidelines for  when you may need to seek advice or support more urgently. 

## Pay attention to how your contractions feel
Contractions are completely normal after 37 weeks, but they can also be caused by, for example, stress, dehydration or a urinary tract infection. If you have contractions that disappear at rest and do not hurt, they are generally harmless. However, if you have more than four painful contractions in a day and they do not disappear with rest and hydration you should contact your midwife or OB. This is sometimes a sign of premature labor.

Towards the end of the pregnancy around 37 weeks, you can experience more frequent uterine contractions. This is the body's way of preparing for birth. These contractions usually increase in the frequency and intensity as you get closer to your labor day. Over a course of a few hours or a few days, these contractions can cause change in your cervix and put you into labor. Ask your health care provider the proper procedure to notify them before going to the hospital. 

If you have a planned elective cesarean section and start to have contractions, do not hesitate to contact your OB or midwife for advice, as they will often wish you to come into the hospital to be assessed. This may mean having your scheduled cesarean section sooner than planned. 

## If you have a planned c-section
If you have a planned elective cesarean section and start to have contractions, do not hesitate to contact your OB or midwife for advice, as they will often wish you to come into the hospital to be assessed. This may mean having your scheduled cesarean section sooner than planned. 

Braxton Hicks are when your uterus contracts and relaxes. Sometimes they are known as false labor pa...

What are braxton hicks? 

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You might wonder whether it is even possible to sleep comfortably during the final phase of your pregnancy. Is it possible to sleep sitting upright? And how many pillows do you actually need?

Whether a particular sleep position should be recommended to pregnant women is currently under debate. During pregnancy, your blood flow and blood volume increase. Pressure on your blood vessels rises as your uterus and baby grow. This is particularly evident when you lie on your back since there is more pressure on one specific vein in your back, the Vena Cava. Dizziness, nausea and a drop in blood pressure are common. In a worst-case scenario, you could faint. Blood circulation to the pregnancy and the baby can also be affected. This phenomenon passes as soon as you change position and the pressure on the vein lightens. We know that blood supply to the pregnancy, the baby and the pregnant woman is best when she lies on her left side.

When we sleep, we seldom lie completely still but often change positions—and this usually happens automatically. If you feel fine when you sleep on your back, then it is perfectly OK to do so. However, it’s likely that you will not feel comfortable sleeping on your back by the end of your pregnancy. 

A few studies have looked at women’s sleeping positions and whether that could have an impact on the baby in the uterus. It is possible that there is a link between a supine position and a greater risk for the baby in the uterus. That said, it is important to bear in mind that the risk of Vena Cava syndrome is very slim and the risk of it affecting the baby is even slimmer, though there does appear to be some connection. It was also determined that more research in the matter was necessary before amending any recommendations or guidelines. Some countries—the UK and New Zeeland, for example—have modified recommendations regarding sleeping positions for pregnant women in the third trimester to sleeping on their left side, turning onto their left side if they wake on their back, and lying on the left side when resting during the day. 

It’s worth considering this information. Pregnant women’s sleep at the end of the pregnancy is already affected and it is hard enough to find a comfortable sleep position as is. The importance of rest and sleep is paramount. Generally speaking, try to find a comfortable position and use pillows and cushions. The left side is usually most comfortable, ideally with a small pillow or cushion propped under the right side of your back. This will cause your belly to tip a bit. You don’t need to lie fully on your side. Obviously, there is no cause for concern if you wake on your back having had a good night’s sleep.

You might wonder whether it is even possible to sleep comfortably during the final phase of your pre...

Sleeping positions during pregnancy

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Women who are going to give birth start mentally preparing before their partners do. As parents-to-be, this head start may mean you feel a little out of step with each other, which is perfectly normal. It’s a good idea to register early for an antenatal class since this will give you time to plan something that’s just about the two of you in your busy schedules. It’s a great opportunity to make sure you’re in sync in terms of your thoughts and what you know about pregnancy and giving birth. 
 
Births usually go best when you work as a close-knit team and know each other’s needs. That said, no two births are alike, so you need to prepare—whether you’re having your first, second or third child.

## Start with your relationship
Can you talk with each other about important things? Trust is key in a good relationship. If you feel that there are things you still need to work on in your relationship, now might be a good time to start.

## Visualize your future
Visualize what you want to happen in the lead-up to the birth and talk with each other about what you envision. For example, you might want to visualize “my newborn lying on my chest” or “getting home and walking through the doorway with my baby in my arms”. Use these visualizations during labor and remind each other of them when you’re low on energy or feel that you don’t have the strength to go on.

## Stay at home for as long as possible
Labor often starts with contractions. This first phase is called the latent phase or early labor. Try to stay at home for as long as possible during this stage. Don’t work yourself up by running around looking for things to take with you to the hospital. Instead, have your hospital bag packed well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. 

The hormone oxytocin, which is released in the mother’s body when the she feels secure and relaxed, stimulates contractions. Oxytocin is sensitive to stress and disturbances, so light a candle, stay calm, try to relax and make sure you rest as much as possible between contractions. 

## Time to go to the hospital or birth center
When the contractions get closer together and become longer and more intense, it’s time to go to the hospital or birth center. This second phase is called active labor and is usually an intensive and demanding part of childbirth. Now you’ll need the tools that you practiced during pregnancy to help you manage the pain, your breathing and your relaxation.

## Get extra energy
Toward the end of active labor, it’s normal to feel quite exhausted, and you both may need an energy boost to cope. Remember to pack a light snack, water or a sports drink for this stage. You may feel your energy return during the final phase of childbirth, which is called transitional labor, and ends with your baby being born. 

## A supportive partner 
The loving support of a partner during labor is priceless. You are important! Remember that—even if you feel afraid, unsure and don’t know how to help. Just being there and responding to your partner goes a long way—both during pregnancy and labor. Ask your partner what she needs and how you can support her.

## Be conscious of your needs
To be able to support your partner in the best possible way you need to be conscious of your own needs. For example, if you are afraid of seeing your partner in pain, or you have a phobia of blood or hospitals, it’s a good idea to think about how you are going to manage that. A well-prepared, well-rested partner who’s had enough to eat provides the best support during labor. 

## Learn about labor
Although you don’t have any medical responsibility as a partner, it’s still a good idea to learn about the actual birth process. Reading about the different phases of childbirth, how labor starts, pain-management techniques and pain relief can help you to feel confident, which will also instill a feeling of confidence in your partner.

## Give massages and stay close
You can help your partner during labor by giving her a massage. Your touch may help her body to release oxytocin. Keep your massages soft and rhythmical. Slow, gentle, firm movements are often best, both during and between contractions.

You can help during labor by being close, wiping her forehead with a damp towel between contractions and reminding her that your baby will soon be here.

 




Women who are going to give birth start mentally preparing before their partners do. As parents-to-b...

Prepare for the birth together

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Preglife is the number one pregnancy and baby app in the nordics with thousands of users in Europe and the US. Pregnancy is no walk in the park. It can be a series of highs, a series of lows, or a bit of both. One thing is for certain, though. Preglife will stand by you through it all - the good, the bad, and the ugly. We’ll be your safe space, we’ll read the latest research for you and we’ll break the stigmas - so that you can carry your pregnancy with pride, pleasure and peace of mind. 

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All trimesters

Seeing that positive test might have been something you planned for — or a complete surprise. Either way, this is the start of something life-changing, and it’s completely normal to have a lot of thoughts and emotions right now. We’re here for you.

Do you feel like sharing the news right away, or keeping it to yourself for a little while? There’s no right or wrong — it’s entirely your choice. Have you scheduled your first appointment with a midwife? We’ll walk you through what to do next. Are you taking folic acid? If not, now’s the time to start — it plays an important role in your baby’s early development.

Just tested positive

Congratulations on your pregnancy! 
But what will happen now?

Visits during pregnancy

The first trimester often comes with nausea, increased fatigue, and more disrupted sleep than you might be used to. Learn why this happens — and what else you, your body, and your growing baby can expect during the early stages of pregnancy.

Trimester 1

It’s time to start getting everything in place. Have you thought about how you feel about giving birth? Packed your hospital bag yet? If not — or if you’d like a little guidance — you’ll find helpful tips and advice here.

Trimester 3

Thoughtful guides and inspiration for pregnancy life — from safe skincare routines to nesting tips and beyond.

Lifestyle

Sometimes things don't go as we want to or plan for and a pregnancy is abrupted. Here we try to give you some support and guidance when this happens.

Fertility

Here is a collection of articles about expecting a baby, preparations before birth and parenting.

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Trimester 2

Fetal diagnostics – Follow up

What does a newborn really need?

The Ultimate Stroller Guide

Pregnancy

Getting to know your baby

Symptoms

Bleeding between weeks 12+0 – 21+6

More information from the midwife

What is hypnobirthing - and how can it help me during birth?

Preparation for childbirth

Birth letter

Trimester 1

What are braxton hicks?

Trimester 1

Sleeping positions during pregnancy

Prepare for the birth together

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