My Top 7 Pregnancy & Birth Preparation Websites for New Mums: A North London Doula’s guide
Welcome to my new blog series “A North London Doula’s Guide”. In this series I’ve set out my favourite podcasts and websites to help you with your pregnancy, birth and postpartum life. Just like I do in my work as a North London based birth and postnatal doula and as an ante/postnatal educator!
Pregnancy is an exciting and transformative time, but it can also bring many questions and uncertainties. New mums often find themselves navigating decisions about their medical care, choice of care provider, and where to give birth. From understanding different birth options to making a birth plan that reflects your needs and preferences, being well-informed is key to a positive experience.
You may have questions about your rights during pregnancy and birth, whether to choose a midwife-led or consultant-led approach, or whether home birth, birth centre, or hospital birth is right for you. It’s also important to know that you have the right to make informed choices and decline interventions if they don’t align with your wishes.
Fortunately, there are some fantastic online resources to help guide you through your pregnancy and birth preparation. Here are my top recommended websites:
Top Pregnancy & Birth Resources
Birthrights
Birthrights is a UK-based charity that provides information and advice on human rights in pregnancy and childbirth. Their website includes factsheets on topics such as consent, choosing where to give birth, and navigating medical interventions.
AIMS (Association for Improvements in the Maternity Services)
AIMS has been supporting parents since 1960 in advocating for better maternity services. Their website is packed with research-based articles, birth stories, and advice to help parents make informed decisions about their care.
Dr. Sara Wickham
Sara Wickham is a respected midwife and researcher who provides evidence-based information on pregnancy and birth. Her website features articles, research reviews, and books on topics such as induction, gestational diabetes, and making informed choices in maternity care.
Midwife Thinking
Dr. Rachel Reed, a midwife and academic, shares in-depth, evidence-based discussions on key birth topics. Her website is an excellent resource for understanding birth physiology, interventions, and the role of care providers.
Tell Me a Good Birth Story
A wonderful collection of real birth stories, blogs, and resources to inspire and inform parents-to-be. This site can be especially helpful for those looking to hear positive birth experiences and gain confidence in their choices.
Home Birth Reference Site
A comprehensive site for parents considering a home birth. It covers everything from the practicalities of planning a home birth to research and statistics on safety.
Twins Trust
A fantastic resource for parents expecting twins or multiples. Twins Trust offers support, research-based information, and advice on pregnancy, birth, and the early weeks with multiple babies.
How I Can Support You
While these websites provide excellent information, sometimes you need personalised guidance and reassurance. As a birth and postnatal doula, I support parents through pregnancy, birth, and beyond, helping them make informed decisions about their care, create a birth plan that aligns with their wishes, and navigate challenges with confidence.
Whether you are planning a home birth, considering different interventions, or preparing for the arrival of twins or multips, I can offer practical advice, emotional support, and hands-on techniques to help you feel empowered throughout your journey.
If you live in North London and would like one-to-one support in your pregnancy or birth preparation, feel free to book-in a call with me - I’d love to help you feel confident and informed as you welcome your baby into the world!