Preparing for labour starts with antenatal education, and this chapter explains how childbirth classes and a birth plan help you make informed choices about pain relief, labour positions and who will be with you. It describes the support a partner, doula or midwife can offer, and how continuous support may lead to shorter labours. The three stages of labour are set out, beginning with early and active labour as the cervix dilates, followed by pushing and delivering the baby. The chapter also covers pain relief without medication, such as hydrotherapy, massage and breathing, and preparing for unexpected situations like forceps delivery or an emergency C-section.