Annie has been teaching `active birth’ sessions in workshops for over 10 years. Aristea teaches the same in her every day practice as a Midwife.

Annie and Aristea have decided to include Interactive active birth positions in their classes, as they believe it is essential for couples to have a deep understanding of what active birth means. You are given the opportunity to practice the positions which will help you prepare for a natural, normal labour and birth.

When Birth is Active

• there is less need for analgesia
• discomfort and pain are reduced
• the uterus functions more effectively
• supply of oxygen to the baby is improved
• there is less need for forceps and ventouse
• the secretion of hormones is not disrupted
• From Janet Balaskas Active Birth Book

Annie facilitates Active birth on day two of calmbirthclasses and includes

• physically exploring active birth positions
• use of birth balls in labour
• partner support strategies
• massage/touch techniques
• optimal foetal positioning
• integrating calm birth techniques to support active birth

Annie and Aristea encourage women to use active birth positions when supporting them in labour. Annie has been teaching active birth yoga in her weekly Melbourne antenatal classes and regular workshops with couples. Annie was inspired by Janet Balsakas Active Birth book and used active birth postures during her own pregnancies when Active Birth was founded in the 1980s.