South West midwives bring positive birthing to Bridgetown and Manjimup

WA Country Health Service’s Warren Health Service is launching the Positive Birth Program for expectant Bridgetown and Manjimup families from mid-September.

The innovative program is free for Medicare eligible families.

Classes are run over one weekend in the lead up to birth, with each class providing expectant parents with the tools needed to negotiate the birth process.

The program covers topics such as natural birth, assisted birth and caesarean section as well as breathing and deep relaxation techniques, care-planning for labour and breastfeeding.

South West Executive Director Kerry Winsor said antenatal education programs had a proven track record of success. 

“We know that providing access to quality antenatal education programs can help to improve the physical and mental wellbeing of mums, bubs and families.

“Feeling calm, relaxed and empowered is incredibly important.”

Warren Health Service Midwife Erica Claydon said she is looking forward to delivering face-to-face classes to expectant mothers and their birth partners.

“Going into a birth feeling prepared and supported is so important and I’m pleased to be delivering the tools our mums need to navigate their birthing journey.” 

The program is also available right across country WA via telehealth. 

For enrolment information, email WACHSBirthEducation@health.wa.gov.au