The latent phase (the time when your body is preparing itself for labour) can be very quick or last for several days

It can be useful to be organised for the start of labour by referring to your birth plan and having a heat pack and some paracetamol to hand, if you think this may be helpful. We would also advise you to have your hospital bag packed in advance, so your journey to hospital is as calm as possible. You can find more information on birth plans and hospital bags on the labour pages of this website.

The physiotherapy department have produced a film which uses breathing and relaxation techniques which can be helpful during the latent phase and throughout your labour. It can be helpful for you and your birth partner to watch the video and practice the techniques before labour starts. This will support you in feeling confident when labour begins and encourage you to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation during your pregnancy.

We are in the process of developing a film which will help guide you through the latent stage of labour, so please check back in the near future for any developments.

When To Call Hospital

There are times where you may wish to contact the maternity unit for additional support or advice, for example:

• Bleeding – fresh red and more than 2 tablespoons
• If you feel your baby’s movements have reduced or changed
• If your waters have broken
• Ff your contractions become
• Longer, stronger and more regular
• (3 contractions in 10 Minutes lasting around 60 seconds)

Maternity Triage – 01324 567098 – always available for advice.

Birthing Aids to Promote Natural Birth

These aids are designed to support you during your labour and aid your baby’s birth journey

Kaya Birthing Stool

• Kaya birthing stools can be used for sitting, squatting, for support when standing, rocking and can be used in the pool or shower

Peanut Balls

• The peanut birth ball gives a more controlled, multi directional movement, therefore providing more stability for you in labour
• Many women report that the unique shape is very comfortable
• The ball sits comfortably between your legs and can be used in a variety of positions. It is designed to maximise the space within the birth canal supporting your baby’s journey into the best position for birth
• The peanut ball can also be used if you receive an epidural

Birthing Balls

• Allows gentle rocking and movement in the pelvis. Helps with labour, assisting you into better positioning for birth whilst providing support.

CUB Chair

• The CUB allows you to adopt and maintain positions that are not only the most comfortable but physically the most helpful for you and your baby during labour
• The CUB can be used as a comfortable support through labour and birth. It’s innovative and versatile design means that it can be comfortably used to lean over – supporting an ‘all fours’ position, lean against in a kneeling position, relax and rest against when necessary or indeed to sit on.

CTG Telemetry System

• All of our delivery rooms have telemetry CTG units. These allow your baby to be continuously monitored whilst using Bluetooth technology to allow you to mobilise around the room freely. These are safe for use in the birthing pool.

Extended Entonox Tubing

• We have extended Entonox tubing to allow you to use ‘gas and air’ whilst still moving about the room

Birthing Pool

• Forth Valley Royal Hospital has two pool rooms available to use. There is also a large bath situated within the delivery suite. Read mroe about water birth.

Going Home with Your Baby

Following the birth of your baby it is anticipated that you will be discharged home from the labour ward with your midwifery care being provided in your own home.

Visitors Information

Visiting in ward 7 (delivery suite) is limited to two named birthing partners. Grandparents and siblings may be able to visit for a short time following the birth of your baby providing you are both well.