Day 175 of 280, second trimester
You are 25 weeks exactly
Expect to hear a few unwelcome birth stories, whether you want to or not!
105 days until your due date
For some women, describing their babies' births in minute, hour-by-hour detail seems to be a rite of passage and part of their recovery, and they love a new audience, especially a first-time mom-to-be. So you'll probably hear a few birth horror stories, sometimes from complete strangers!
These women may feel it's their duty to "warn" you about the "reality" of childbirth and tell you what to do, such as "definitely have an epidural, or the pain is horrendous." Remember that every woman's experience is different, and stay focused on your own birth plan. Childbirth is hard for some women, while others have straightforward deliveries. Tell the storyteller you'd rather not hear the gory details, but promise to swap stories once your baby is born!
Good to know
Mother's help
The thought of giving birth and then caring for a newborn can be daunting. For some moms, hiring a doula is the perfect way to ease the move from pregnancy to motherhood.
Doulas "mother the mother," giving emotional and physical (but not medical) support before, during, and after the birth. Extensive research shows a doula can help you have a shorter, easier birth and make pain relief or medical intervention, including an epidural or cesarean, less likely. To find a doula, visit dona.org.
Explainer
A friend in labor
Having a close female friend or relative with you in labor, even just at home in the early stages, can be a great help to you and your partner.
Time to think about
Birth partners
The benefits of a supportive birth partner are clear, so it's worth thinking about now:
- Research shows women who get continuous emotional and physical encouragement in labor are less likely to need pain relief or medical intervention such as an epidural, assisted delivery, or cesarean, and tend to have shorter labors.
- Women who feel well supported are more likely to see their birth positively, take to motherhood and breastfeeding more easily, and are less prone to postpartum depression.
- Your birth partner doesn't have to be the baby's father (although he can be there too); studies suggest a woman may do the job better. A close female friend who's had children could be ideal, or your mom.
- You could also consider hiring a doula.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Whooping cough vaccineUsually around 20 weeks, best before 32 weeks
- Tell your employer (deadline)15 weeks before your due date
- 25-week appointment (first baby)
Read the full 25 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.