What to do if you go into labour at home (and alone)

For a lot of women, the thoughts of going into labour while they are at home is enough to make them want to move to a place closer to the hospital.

While it's not unusual for expectant mums to give birth outside of the maternity ward, there is nothing you can do about when you go into labour.

However, if you are at home when your contractions start, and are alone, there are plenty of things you can do to get through it.

1. Figure out if Baby is coming quickly or not

Time your contractions to see how close to delivery you are; if contractions are two to three minutes apart and your water has broken then you are likely to give birth soon.

2. Call an ambulance

Do call an ambulance and make them aware of the situation. If you are close to giving birth they will likely send someone out to you and the reassuring voice of the operator can calm you down slightly.

3. Unlock your front door

While it might seem a little strange, unlock either your front or back door and let the operator know how the paramedic can get into your home. You may be a little preoccupied when they arrive at your door and are unable to open it.

4. Stay calm

Thousands of women give birth at home with no medical help every week so don't be too daunted by the prospect.

To keep your mind calm, you can prepare a few things (if you can that is):

Try to grab a few clean towels and a basin of warm water and have them ready for when Baby arrives
Lay a plastic tablecloth or shower curtain down on your bed or the couch and lie down on top of it
Stay on your left side to keep the pressure off your vena cava and also so you have easy access to getting at baby

5. Don't push

Try to resist the urge to push as you can deliver too early or damage yourself. Instead, pant through the pain and trust your natural instincts. If you have to push make sure there is a soft landing for when Baby comes out.