Fast forward five years and two births later, and I’m a qualified hypnobirthing instructor, regularly meeting couples who share the same fears about labour and birth that I once did. Of all the information I share in my classes, the most important thing is this: all births need the love hormone oxytocin. Remember what it is and how to produce it, and you’ll have a lovely, calm birth – whatever path it takes.

Oxytocin is the hormone that’s released when we’re happy, laughing, hugging, kissing or having sex, which is why it’s also called the ‘happy’ or ‘shy’ hormone; it likes privacy and intimacy. Labour can’t begin without oxytocin flowing around the mother’s body, but the good news is that it’s easy – and enjoyable – to get it flowing.

Think about what your perfect day would look like. When are you happiest? It might be curled up on the sofa reading a good book, binge-watching Netflix or something more active like walking in the fresh air, shopping or even getting a massage. Experiencing the things that bring a smile to your face will also bring oxytocin to your bloodstream and, when your body and baby are ready, bring on labour.

“I was terrified of giving birth before discovering hypnobirthing – these are the 3 tools that made my experience of labour so positive”