Is There Anything I Can Stream on Netflix or Another Platform to Prepare Me for Labour, Birth, and Postpartum?

Pregnancy and childbirth are some of the most significant events in a person’s life. The journey from the first few weeks of pregnancy to welcoming your baby into the world can be a mix of excitement, joy, anticipation, and sometimes, uncertainty. As you prepare for labour, birth, and the postpartum period, it’s natural to seek information and resources that can help guide you through the process. While attending antenatal classes is one of the best ways to prepare for these major life changes, many expectant parents are now looking for additional ways to educate themselves through streaming platforms like Netflix and other online services.

So, is there anything you can stream to help you prepare for labour, birth, and the postpartum period? The answer is yes. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube offer a variety of documentaries, films, and series that can support your antenatal education. These resources are an accessible and flexible way to learn about childbirth, pregnancy care, and what to expect during the early days of parenthood.

In this article, we’ll explore the best streaming content available to help you prepare for antenatal care, labour, and the postpartum period. We’ll also highlight the importance of antenatal support and provide advice on how to incorporate these valuable resources into your prenatal care routine.

Why Should You Watch Educational Content to Prepare for Labour, Birth, and Postpartum?

Before diving into specific recommendations, let’s take a look at why streaming content can be a useful addition to your antenatal education. While it’s important to attend antenatal classes and make antenatal appointments, having access to other forms of learning, such as documentaries and educational videos, can give you a deeper understanding of what’s ahead.

1. Visual Learning

Pregnancy and childbirth can seem overwhelming due to the many unknowns involved. Watching videos allows you to visualise the process of labour and the birth experience. Understanding the stages of labour and delivery, the medical procedures, and the different pain relief options can reduce anxiety and help you feel more prepared for what’s to come.

2. Access to Expert Advice

Streaming platforms often offer content featuring medical professionals, midwives, and doctors who provide expert guidance on various aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. This expert-led content can complement the information provided in antenatal appointments and classes.

3. Convenience and Flexibility

With streaming content, you can learn at your own pace, on your own schedule, and from the comfort of your home. You can revisit any information as many times as you need to ensure that you feel confident and well-prepared for labour and the early days of parenthood.

4. Comprehensive Learning Experience

When it comes to antenatal care, it’s not just about understanding the technicalities of birth—you’ll also need to focus on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being throughout pregnancy and after childbirth. Streaming platforms offer a wide range of content that addresses all aspects of pregnancy and postpartum recovery, from yoga for pregnancy and prenatal fitness to relaxation during pregnancy and mental health support.

Recommended Streaming Content for Preparing for Labour, Birth, and Postpartum

Now that we’ve discussed why streaming content can be beneficial, let’s explore some of the best shows, documentaries, and series available on popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. These can complement your antenatal education and help you gain insights into various stages of pregnancy and parenthood.

1. The Business of Being Born (Netflix)

One of the most well-known documentaries in the world of childbirth education is “The Business of Being Born.” Directed by Abby Epstein and produced by Ricki Lake, this documentary explores the medicalisation of childbirth, the different birthing options available, and the importance of informed decision-making. It advocates for more natural approaches to childbirth and highlights the benefits of having a birth plan. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the choices available when it comes to labour and delivery.

2. Call the Midwife (Netflix)

For those interested in an entertaining yet educational portrayal of antenatal care and childbirth, “Call the Midwife” is an excellent series to watch. Set in the 1950s and 60s, this British drama follows a group of midwives as they provide care to expectant mothers in London’s East End. The show covers various aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, and offers an insightful look into the role of midwives. While it’s fictional, the show does an admirable job of portraying the emotional and physical challenges of labour and delivery. It’s an engaging way to learn about childbirth while enjoying compelling storytelling.

3. Pregnancy and Birth Documentaries (Amazon Prime Video)

Amazon Prime Video has several documentaries that offer valuable information on pregnancy care and childbirth. These documentaries typically feature interviews with medical professionals, real-life birth stories, and advice on everything from prenatal health to postpartum recovery. For instance, “Pregnancy and Birth” offers a range of episodes focusing on various aspects of pregnancy and delivery, from the early signs of pregnancy to antenatal care and different birthing techniques.

4. The Doula’s Guide to Childbirth (YouTube)

Many expectant parents turn to YouTube for free resources, and there are several channels dedicated to helping you understand the ins and outs of antenatal education. One channel worth checking out is The Doula’s Guide to Childbirth. It offers a series of videos that focus on everything from understanding the stages of labour to preparing for a water birth. This series is especially helpful if you’re looking for insights into natural childbirth and want to learn from doulas who provide emotional and physical support during pregnancy and birth.

5. Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth (YouTube)

Another great resource is the channel featuring content from Ina May Gaskin, one of the most famous midwives in the world. Ina May’s approach to childbirth is centred around natural birth and empowering women to trust their bodies during the labour process. Her teachings on prenatal care, natural birth techniques, and postpartum care are invaluable for anyone interested in antenatal education. Her videos provide information on breathing techniques, relaxation during pregnancy, and the importance of a supportive birthing environment.

6. Down to Earth with Zac Efron (Netflix)

While not specifically focused on pregnancy and childbirth, Down to Earth with Zac Efron touches on wellness, sustainable living, and self-care. In the series, Zac Efron travels the world exploring ways to improve health and mental well-being. Several episodes focus on practices that can benefit expectant parents, such as yoga, prenatal massage, and holistic health approaches. If you’re looking for a more general approach to wellness during pregnancy and beyond, this series can be a fun way to gain inspiration.

How Streaming Content Supports Antenatal Care and Postpartum Recovery

While watching educational content on streaming platforms provides valuable insights into the process of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery, it’s important to remember that streaming should not replace professional antenatal care. It is vital that you attend regular antenatal checkups, and that you consult with your midwife or doctor to discuss any specific concerns you may have during pregnancy.

In addition, many expectant parents benefit from integrating practices like antenatal yoga, pregnancy massage, and relaxation techniques to prepare for labour and reduce stress during pregnancy. Unii.com’s antenatal classes, which include expert-led courses on prenatal care and antenatal fitness, can provide further support alongside streaming content.

Conclusion

Preparing for labour, birth, and the postpartum period is a journey that requires careful thought, planning, and emotional support. While antenatal classes and appointments are crucial for understanding the medical aspects of pregnancy and childbirth, streaming content offers a flexible and engaging way to complement your learning. By watching documentaries, series, and educational videos, you can gain additional insights into pregnancy care, antenatal support, labour techniques, and postpartum recovery.

Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube provide a wide variety of resources to help expectant parents feel more confident and prepared as they approach this exciting chapter of their lives. Whether you choose to watch The Business of Being Born for a comprehensive look at childbirth or dive into Call the Midwife for an entertaining yet educational experience, streaming can be a valuable tool in your antenatal education.

Remember, while online content is a great supplement, it’s important to seek advice from medical professionals and ensure that you are receiving the antenatal support that is right for you.