SAY WHAT?

From magical to shocking and everything in between, these stars reveal how labour and birth really are different for everyone

“Before I had Rex, I was excited, but not prepared for how it would all take place. With Honey, I took the time to do hypnobirthing, and the experience was magical. I had her in the water and the breathing techniques allowed me a completely di erent experience to my first.”

FEARNE COTTON, TV AND RADIO PRESENTER, AND MOTHER TO REX AND HONEY

“I was excited, but a little apprehensive, as however many books you read, nothing can quite prepare you for labour. Both my babies presented ‘back to back’, which was complicated – but having my amazing midwife, Jenny Smith, on hand meant I was able to deliver naturally both times.”

KATE SILVERTON, NEWSREADER AND JOURNALIST, AND MOTHER TO CLEMENCY AND WILBUR

“I spent a huge amount of time learning about deep breathing and contractions and less time talking about changing nappies. The birth only lasts a matter of hours – the aftermath goes on a lifetime.”

RICHARD CURTIS, WRITER, DIRECTOR, AND FATHER TO SCARLETT, JAKE, CHARLIE AND SPIKE

“When I had a tough birth with my son, I felt shattered both physically and emotionally, as I had had high expectations, and when those didn’t materialise, it hit me hard. When it came to Willow, I felt more prepared for the tough time that might come my way, so mentally I was stronger.”

NATALIE PINKHAM, TV PRESENTER, AND MOTHER TO WILF AND WILLOW

“Nothing prepares you for just how magical and intense giving birth is; I’m so grateful that I was able to deliver naturally with my husband by my side for all six hours of labour. Holding my baby for the first time is a feeling I’ll never forget – it was such a special moment in my life.”

ASHLEY GRAHAM, MODEL, AND MOTHER TO ISAAC

Me & my baby

How I feel…

PHOTOGRAPHY: HELENE SANDBERG

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