Your baby is now officially an embryo and is about the size of a poppy seed.
Please visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/4-weeks-pregnant/ for more information.
Caesarean Sections - what, when, how and why?
You may be wondering what a Caesarean Section (or often shortened to C-section) is, whether you can or should have one, or have been advised by a doctor or midwife that you might need one. Or you may be an interested partner or relative who wants to know more to have an informed discussion with the mum-to-be.
Click here for more information
Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC)
If you have previously had a C-section and are wondering if you can have a normal vaginal birth this time, speak to your midwife during your pregnancy journey. Most women are able to safely, but there can be a slightly increased risk of some birth complications. This will be considered with you and the risks of both vaginal birth and caesarean birth weighed up for your circumstances.
Tokophobia - fear of pregnancy and childbirth
Some women may have a significant fear of pregnancy and giving birth, either for the first time, or after a problematic prior birth experience. If this is the case, your midwife can put you in touch with mental health specialists who can talk this through with you and explain your options. The earlier you do this in your pregnancy the better, so you have plenty of time for discussions.
Some areas also run 'Birth afterthought' sessions where you can talk through previous birth experiences, look at your notes together and discuss your birth plan and ambitions at this pregnancy. Again, talk to your midwife about what is available.
