Videos and podcasts

Educational materials for childbirth and newborn care

We offer a comprehensive collection of videos and audio recordings to help you prepare for childbirth and learn about newborn care and feeding. The materials are created by our experienced midwives and doctors.

Breast milk is best for the baby

Biological breastfeeding position

For breastfeeding in a biological position, choose a wide and comfortable bed or sofa and use at least three pillows for support. If you want to encourage the baby to suck and strengthen emotional bonding, skin-to-skin contact is recommended. Place pillows behind your head for support and lie in a semi-reclined position. Place one pillow under your arm to provide additional support for the baby. Place the baby face down on your chest so that the baby’s nose is level with the nipple and the baby's body weight rests on you. Support the baby with the hand on the side of the breast being offered if necessary, placing your palm on the baby’s bottom. When the baby opens their mouth, they can latch onto the breast and begin sucking. Make sure you are comfortable and relaxed and that the baby is also comfortable.

Side-lying position

For breastfeeding while lying down, lie comfortably on your side on a bed or sofa. Place a pillow between your head and shoulder and bend your knees. An additional pillow between the knees and a rolled blanket or towel behind the baby may help provide support. Position the baby on their side facing you so that the baby’s entire body is turned towards you. The baby’s nose should be level with the nipple. When the baby opens their mouth, gently pull them closer so they can latch onto the breast and begin sucking. A rolled-up blanket may be placed behind the baby’s back and bottom to prevent them from rolling backwards during feeding. However, the back of the baby’s head should remain free so that the baby can move it naturally. Because it is possible to fall asleep while breastfeeding in a lying position, choose a bed with a firm mattress and ensure that there are protective sides or that the bed is placed against a wall. Breastfeeding on a low mattress placed on the floor can also be safe. Make sure that there are no large pillows or heavy blankets near the baby that could cover them.

Cradle position

The cradle position is one of the most common positions for breastfeeding while sitting. It is often more suitable for feeding a slightly older baby or for mothers with previous breastfeeding experience.Choose a chair with a comfortable backrest, and place a pillow behind your back if necessary. Lean back slightly to improve comfort. Keep your shoulders in a free, relaxed position, and place your feet on a low footrest if possible.Hold the baby on the same side as the breast being offered. The baby’s body should face the mother and the baby’s nose should be level with the nipple. Use your free hand to support the breast or provide additional support for the baby. A pillow may be placed under your elbow or under the baby for extra support.Depending on the shape of the breast and the size of the baby, the baby’s body can be positioned slightly higher under the breast or slightly lower on the mother’s abdomen to achieve a comfortable feeding position.

Cradle position with support of the opposite arm

This position, with the support of the opposite arm, is particularly suitable for breastfeeding a newborn or premature baby. Choose a chair with an upright backrest and a pillow behind your back if needed. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your feet supported on a footrest. Place a firm pillow or breastfeeding pillow on your lap so that the baby lies comfortably at the height of the nipple, with the nose level with the nipple and the whole body facing the mother. Support the baby from neck to toe with the opposite hand. Avoid pushing the baby’s head towards the breast.If the baby is feeding from the side of the breast, you can support the breast in a U-shape to help the baby latch more easily. When the baby opens their mouth, gently but firmly pull them against the breast with the other hand so they can begin to suck.

Football hold

The football or underarm position is well-suited for breastfeeding after caesarean section and also for women with larger breasts. Also, twins can be breastfed simultaneously in this way. Choose a sofa or a more spacious armchair for sitting. To support the baby, at least one pillow is required, which must be placed under the armpit towards the breast offered for sucking. The baby lies on the pillow, legs and body facing backwards. The baby’s body should face the mother, with the nose level with the nipple. The pillow should be high enough so the baby can reach the nipple comfortably without the mother needing to lean forward or adjust the breast. The baby’s chest may rest on the pillow. If the baby does not fit comfortably under the arm, make more room for the baby’s legs. You can do this by placing a thicker pillow behind your back to move slightly away from the backrest, or by lowering the baby's bottom. Support the baby by holding the upper back and neck with the hand on the same side as the breast being used for feeding. When the baby opens their mouth, gently pull them close to the breast so that they can latch on and begin sucking. If necessary, with your free hand, support the breast in a C-shape and guide it to the baby's mouth.

Starting to feed a sleepy baby

It is easier to wake a baby for feeding when they begin to show signs of activity, such as opening their eyes, bringing their hand to their mouth or moving slightly. To wake the baby, talk softly, stroke them and slowly remove their blanket. A clean, damp gauze or cotton swab could be used to wipe the baby's eyes, face and behind the ears. Washing the baby’s bottom or removing clothing may also help stimulate them. A gentle massage while drying the baby can also help, as well as changing their diaper. Before placing the baby on the breast, you may express a few drops of breast milk to stimulate feeding. Breaks during feeding are normal, but if the baby tends to fall asleep on the chest, gentle stimulation of the feet, hands, the area between the shoulder blades, or the lateral lobe may help keep the baby awake.

Expressing breast milk by hand

Hand expression of breast milk is a useful skill for any breastfeeding mother because it is simple, effective and requires no equipment. Choose a clean container or spoon and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. To encourage milk flow, the breasts may be warmed, gently massaged and stroked towards the nipple before expressing. Place your thumb and fingers approximately 2.5-3 cm from the nipple so that the nipple is centred between them. Press gently back towards the chest wall and then bring your fingers together to compress the milk ducts. Relax your fingers, but keep them in the same position and repeat the motion. Milk will gradually begin to flow. Collect the expressed breast milk in a clean cup. After some time, change the position of the fingers around the breast to empty different milk ducts. Use both hands on each breast. Avoid squeezing too hard or sliding your fingers along the skin. Breast milk can be stored in a closed container at room temperature for approximately 4-6 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Colostrum collected on a spoon can be given directly to the baby immediately after expressing.

Syringe/pipette feeding

Before feeding the baby, prepare everything you need. Take the required amount of expressed or pumped breast milk or formula into a syringe. If necessary, preheat the milk. The baby can be held in your arms, put to bed or placed on their back with the head slightly elevated. Place the tip of the syringe in the corner of the baby's mouth, between the gum and the cheek, and slowly inject a small amount, about 0.2 ml, into the baby's mouth. Before giving more milk, make sure that the baby has swallowed. Avoid allowing the baby to suck directly on the syringe. A pipette may also be used instead of a syringe if it feels softer or easier to use.

Spoon/cup feeding

For spoon feeding, use a clean spoon with a smooth, rounded edge. The amount of milk can be measured in advance using a syringe if needed. Place the baby in a semi-reclined position on the bed or hold them in your arms. Rest the spoon on the baby's lower lip so that the milk reaches the mouth. Allow the baby to sip and swallow the milk themselves. Do not pour the milk directly into the baby’s mouth. Breast milk may sometimes spill when feeding from a spoon. Avoid feeding a very sleepy baby to prevent milk entering the throat or nose. If the baby is very active, lightly wrapping the baby before feeding may help reduce movement and prevent spilling. The same method can also be used when feeding from a small cup. Slightly larger amounts can be offered from a cup, and the risk of spilling may be lower.

Finger-syringe feeding

Good hand hygiene is essential for this method. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before feeding. If a parent has long nails or artificial nails, then they should use gloves or fingertip protection. Before feeding, expressed breast milk or formula should be prepared in the syringe and warmed up if necessary. Ensure that there is a small amount of air in the syringe along with the milk. For feeding, place the baby on their back with the head slightly raised. Make sure the baby’s head is straight. Talk to the baby, maintain eye contact and smile to help the baby feel calm and secure. Gently place your fingertip in the baby’s mouth, usually the index finger. The finger should trigger the baby’s natural sucking reflex. Avoid placing the finger too far into the mouth so that the gag reflex is not triggered. Depending on the child, the finger can be placed in the baby's mouth in either direction. When the baby has begun to suck the finger, the tip of the syringe should also be brought into the baby's mouth from the corner of the mouth next to the finger. The baby should suck the milk from the syringe themselves. When the baby sucks, small bubbles may appear in the syringe and you will see the amount of milk decrease. It is not necessary to push the milk into the baby's mouth. Keep the baby’s head in a straight, supported position so that they can maintain suction and swallow more easily.

Examinations and treatment

Information about the care available in the neonatal department for babies who need additional examinations or treatment.

Neonatal Department at the Women's Health Clinic

In the neonatal department, a baby in need of treatment can stay with his parents around the clock. Research has shown that the constant school and closeness of parents have a very positive effect on the child: the family learns to understand the needs of their child and cope with them. This, in turn, means that all sorts of medical procedures will be performed less for these children, but at the same time the treatment result will be better. At the same time, the bond between the child and the parents is also strengthened.

Use of BiliCocoon at the Women's Health Clinic

BiliCocoon is a modern treatment device used to treat newborn jaundice (hyperbilirubinemia). With this device, parents can hold and breastfeed their baby during treatment.This allows parents and babies to remain close to each other. BiliCocoon is a soft and comfortable medical device.

Pain relief during childbirth

Our maternity hospital offers many ways to help relieve labour pain and support mothers during childbirth.

Warm water jets applied to the hips, lower back and shoulders can help women relax and focus on herself and her baby. The presence of a support person can provide comfort, reassurance and a sense of security.

Childbirth requires time and patience from both the midwife and the support person. Gentle touch and encouragement from a partner can help a woman feel supported and cared for. This often reduces fear and tension and increases confidence during labour.

The side-lying position may help a woman who feels tired during labour. In this position, the support person can help hold the woman’s leg and gently guide it as directed by the midwife. When a contraction begins, the woman is encouraged to start pushing and focus on her breathing. When the contraction ends, breathing returns to normal and the woman relaxes.

A seated or upright position can be helpful during the pushing stage. The pelvis is open, and the baby moves downward thanks to gravity. When the contractions are over, the support person can help the woman refresh her face with a damp towel, moisten her lips, or offer her a drink of water. By supporting each other and working together in this way, the experience of childbirth can remain a positive and memorable one.

Proper breathing during childbirth helps the mother cope with labour and ensures that both the baby and the working muscles receive an adequate supply of oxygen. Breathing techniques for labour can be practiced and learned already during pregnancy in classes specifically designed for expectant mothers. Leaning forward and gently rocking on a therapy ball will help reduce restlessness and promote relaxation during labour.

The hands-and-knees position can be comfortable when labour pains are very intense and the woman needs some rest. The baby does not press on the cervix as strongly as in an upright position, and contractions may feel easier to breathe through. In this position, a beanbag or cushion can help the woman relax and rest between contractions.

Water can be used to promote relaxation during the early stages of labour as the cervix begins to open, and water birth may also be an option. Being in the bath can help the mother feel more relaxed. The warmth of the water can ease tension in the back and body, and sometimes reduce the need for physical support or massage. The presence of a loved one can help reduce fears and stress. Gentle touch and reassurance from a partner can encourage the release of hormones that support the progress of labour.

The kneeling position can help the mother focus on her inner strength during labour and may also be suitable for childbirth. During the pauses between contractions, gently moving or rocking the hips can help manage discomfort and support the baby’s movement down the birth canal.

Hand massage can be helpful during the early stages of labour, when contractions are still infrequent. Gentle massage by a partner can help relieve tension and support relaxation while the cervix is opening. Practising hand massage during pregnancy can also be beneficial, helping both partners become familiar with soothing touch and creating a sense of calm and comfort. Simple, gentle stroking movements are safe and effective, helping the mother feel supported, cared for and relaxed.

A mobile support frame can help the mother move around comfortably in a slightly inclined position, allowing her to rest and maintain good breathing support during labour. Gentle touch and massage can provide significant relief. Gently shaking or rocking the lower body or thighs can also help the mother relax. Although this movement may appear unusual to an observer, many women find that rhythmic shaking is very relaxing. The movement can help release tension and promote relaxation in the pelvic floor muscles.

The most important task of the support person is to be able to take both an active and a supportive presence when needed, while always respecting and responding to the mother’s wishes. A sensitive and intuitive companion who has discussed expectations with the mother during pregnancy will be well prepared to offer encouragement and meaningful support during labour.

Moving into a full squat while holding onto support can be helpful. This position widens the pelvis and can assist the baby’s movement towards the vaginal opening. It is important to keep the heels firmly on the ground to maintain stability. Applying warm water to the back can help relieve tension, helping the mother feel more comfortable and confident during labour.

KTG is essential for assessing the health of the baby and can be done wirelessly while the mother remains in an upright position. Using a support frame can provide comfortable body support during this time. As each contraction begins, the mother can focus on slow, deep breathing into the abdomen through the mouth. Gentle hip movements may also help with comfort. Many women find it helpful to focus on calming thoughts, such as reminding themselves that their body is opening, the baby is moving downward, and that everything is progressing well. Each contraction is followed by a period of relaxation before the next one begins. Staying nearby and offering quiet support is important, especially when the mother is breathing calmly during contractions and resting between them.

It is important that during childbirth, the mother is able to free herself from distracting thoughts and focus on herself. The support person should understand beforehand that a quiet, silent presence can be very helpful. As labour progresses and contractions become more intense, the sounds that accompany breathing during contractions may also become louder and stronger.

Lectures, films and podcasts

We recommend watching the video clips created in collaboration with perekool.ee, in which our midwives explain the worries and joys of pregnancy and childbirth:

Birth of Kätlin and Tambet's little son in a Women's Health Clinic
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Video clips of childbearing, childbirth, feeding and caring for a child
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Mareta Adamson-Rüütel, a swimming coach at the family centre, gives instructions on how to swim and dive for an infant

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Midwife Liis Raag explains when a baby can be offered water to drink
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Dentist Krista Vapper presents ways to relieve the discomfort associated with teething
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Midwife Liis Raag explains the issues related to giving vitamin D
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Mareta Adamson-Rüütel, a massage therapist at the family centre, encourages gentle massage for babies

Norwegian film translated into Estonian in cooperation with the Estonian Committee for the Promotion of Breastfeeding and the Estonian Midwifery Association:

The film “Breast milk is the best for the baby”

The film explains the importance of breastfeeding from the first days of a child’s life and provides advice on preventing common breastfeeding concerns and managing potential difficulties. It also discusses nutrition for breastfeeding mothers. The film was produced with the support of the Estonian Health Insurance Fund.

The film “Breastfeeding”

What you and your partner should change in your lifestyle if you catch two stripes on the pregnancy test (Dr. Marit Kõre) — Family and Home podcast “9 months”
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“Smoking by a man can also have a bad effect on the future foetus”, says Marit Kõre, a gynaecologist at Lääne-Tallinn Central Hospital, to parents planning a pregnancy. She advises both parents to give up smoking, alcohol, and, of course, drugs if they want to get pregnant, she says in the opening part of the podcast “9 Months”.
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3rd month of pregnancy - what can doctors see and what can be done if everything does not go as planned? (Dr. Jaanika Regonen) — Family and Home podcast “9 months”
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“We all hope that everything will go well with the pregnancy, but if something should go wrong at some stage, we can refer the woman to a crisis counsellor”, says Jaanika Regonen, a gynaecologist at the West Tallinn Central Hospital, on the “9 Months” podcast.
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Every third woman who has given birth has problems with the pelvic floor. However, it can be prevented! (Meelike Reimer) — Family and Home podcast “9 months”
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“It is good to know that during pregnancy a woman can start with exercises that prevent a weak bladder when coughing after giving birth”, says Meelike Reimer, head of the Family Centre at the Women's Health Clinic, on the episode of the “9 Months” podcast. She admits that, according to research, every third woman who has given birth complains of insecurity in the pelvic floor.
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7th month of pregnancy — The official part of having a baby: laws, parental leave and money. What you should know! (Marita Ilmoja) — Family and Home podcast “9 months”
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“Only one parent can be on parental leave at a time, even if there are several small children in the family,” explains Marita Ilmoja, a social worker at the Pelgulinna Maternity Hospital, in an episode of the podcast “9 Months”. “If the father remains on parental leave and the mother does not want to return to work, then he must terminate his employment contract. In this case, he will also lose his health insurance”.
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Midwife: If a woman giving birth has certain expectations, we can only hope that everything will go smoothly (Merit Tammela and Dr. Sandra Tammekivi) — Family and Home podcast “9 months”
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“It is very popular to make a birth plan. If it is done sensibly and clearly, it can be very helpful. But sometimes women base their plans on old books or information they read years ago and include things they do not want — even though some of those practices are no longer used today,” says Merit Tamam, the midwife in charge of the maternity ward at the Women's Health Clinic, in the podcast “9 Months”.
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The paediatrician explains: What happens if parents leave their child unvaccinated? (Dr. Merle Areda) — Family and Home podcast “9 months”
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“I understand the fears of anti-vaccine people. It is very easy to find yourself reading all kinds of things on the Internet. And it is inherent in human nature that if something happens to a child, some reason must be found, even if it cannot be proven”, says Merle Areda, a paediatrician at the Women's Health Clinic, in the podcast “9 Months”.
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Midwife: I am proud that we have such maternity hospitals and such wonderful mothers (Merit Tammela) — Family and Home podcast “Motherhood”
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In the video podcast “Motherhood”, the midwife of West Tallinn Central Hospital, Merit Tammela, talks about childbearing and childbirth — how to prepare for the arrival of a baby as a first-time mother, what the first signs of childbirth are, and what different positions and aids can be used during childbirth.
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On the importance of breastfeeding (Merit Tammela) — Kuku radio show “Health”
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The first seven days of August are traditionally declared World Breastfeeding Week, which aims to emphasise its naturalness and benefits for both the health and well-being of the baby and the mother. In this show, we are talking about breastfeeding. Merit Tammela, a midwife in charge of the maternity ward of the West Tallinn Central Hospital, talks about why breast milk is important for the baby, what breastfeeding gives to the mother, how long the baby can be breastfed, what is worth knowing about artificial baby foods and when to consider stopping breastfeeding.
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What are the alternatives if a woman cannot breastfeed (Merit Tammela) — Kuku radio show “Health”
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We talk about breastfeeding. Merit Tammela, the midwife in charge of the maternity ward of the West Tallinn Central Hospital, explains why sometimes the mother cannot or does not want to breastfeed and what the alternatives are in this case.
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Can a pregnant woman exercise? (Meelike Reimer) — Rooster radio show “Health”
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We talk about workouts for pregnant women. Meelike Reimer, head of the family centre of the Central Hospital of West Tallinn, explains why physical activity is important for pregnant women and what to watch out for.

What are the benefits of exercise for babies? (Meelike Reimer) — Rooster radio show “Health”
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In this episode, we talk about exercise for babies. Meelike Reimer, head of the family centre of the Central Hospital of West Tallinn, explains the benefits of baby exercise and baby swimming, and what parents should keep in mind.

What to consider when preparing for childbirth (Merit Tammela) — Kuku radio show “Health”
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Merit Tammela, the midwife in charge of the maternity ward at the Women's Health Clinic of West Tallinn Central Hospital, explains when a woman should start thinking about where she would like to give birth and what options are available. She also discusses the key points to consider when planning for childbirth and what is important to know about giving birth at home.

What does childbirth begin with? (Merit Tammela) — Kuku radio show “Health”
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In this episode, Merit Tammela, the midwife in charge of the maternity ward at the Women's Clinic of the West Tallinn Central Hospital, explains how labour begins and what happens in the woman's body during this time. She also discusses how to deal with labour pains and how a partner or birth support person can help during childbirth.
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About water birth (with Merit Tammela) — Kuku Radio Show “Health”
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We visit the Women's Health Clinic at the West Tallinn Central Hospital, where the head midwife Merit Tammela explains the advantages of giving birth in water, who it may be suitable for, and what should be considered during a water birth.

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Aids and ways to relieve labour pain (Merit Tammela) — Kuku radio show “Health”
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We discuss different options and aids that can help relieve labour pains and support relaxation during childbirth. Merit Tammelal, the midwife in charge of the Pelgulinna Maternity Hospital of West Tallinn Central Hospital, explains the advantages of giving birth in water and what options and solutions are offered to those who, for whatever reason, cannot give birth in water.
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About the work of a midwife (Merit Tammela) — Kuku radio show “Health”
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We talk about the work of a midwife and the most common questions and concerns that pregnant women turn to midwives with. Merit Tammela, the midwife in charge of the maternity ward at the Women's Health Clinic at the West Tallinn Central Hospital, is with us.

The role of the midwife (Merit Tammela) — Kuku radio show “Health”
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Let's talk about the work, role and common questions and concerns that pregnant women turn to midwives with. Merit Tammela, the midwife in charge of the maternity ward of the Women's Health Clinic of the West Tallinn Central Hospital, shares her knowledge.