As a tried and tested x2 hypnobirthing chick, the above also resonates 100pc with me. Before DS1's birth, I felt so calm and capable of birthing him drug free and naturally - there was no anxiety or nerves about labour - just happy anticipation and curiosity. With DS2 I knew what to expect during labour and, again, I had confidence in my body's ability to birth naturally. Both my boys births' were incredible experience, and without sounding smug ... after knowing that I could achieve the natural births I wanted I was (and am) incredibly proud of myself. I try to convey to other mums preparing to birth their babies naturally that they can birth the way they want easily, but I've always felt there's a very fine line between encouragement and zealousness. I was also prepared for any turn my babies births might have taken - I wasn't anti-help if it was truly required - but fortunately I had straightforward births which were only 7-8 hours from start to finish.

There are so many traumatic and/or "gory" birth stories out there IRL - I gently try where appropriate (and where welcome) to tell the other side of the birthing story. Some mums-to-be get very tired of hearing "stay relaxed, stay focused and trust your body" ... but not truer words can be spoken of birth.