Birth Wise

13/09/2026

Dads your genetic material is in charge of the placenta

Did you know it’s dad’s DNA that takes the lead in forming the placenta?

That incredible organ that grows, feeds, and sustains the baby for nine months isn’t just mom’s doing… it’s built mostly from his genetic blueprint.

So while mom carries the baby, dad’s DNA is hard at work behind the scenes, shaping the very structure that keeps their little one alive.

And when those genetic instructions don’t line up perfectly, it can play a role in complications like:
• Preeclampsia
• Placental abruption
• Miscarriage
• IUGR (growth restriction)
• Stillbirth

Pregnancy isn’t just one person’s body doing all the heavy lifting.
It’s two sets of DNA, two stories interwoven, creating one new life.

Sometimes the process is seamless.
Sometimes it’s not.
But from the very first cell, both parents are part of the journey even if only one is the one carrying it day by day.

10/09/2026

Are
you interested in participating in local research ?

Thank you for your interest in participating in The WISE Study. Please provide your details in the registration form below and we will in touch!

06/09/2026

Happy Father’s day to all the Dads out there - especially those having their first with their new hatchlings

04/09/2026

Knees together for pushing stage !

01/09/2026

Powerful words:

Your brain doesn’t know how to give birth BUT YOUR BODY DOES!

🧠🤰👶

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZfwzlEM6sm/?igsi=Znoxa3dyMXVwN3p4

14/08/2026

Birth asks a woman to go somewhere deep within herself.

The hands around her matter.

Not because they hold the power to make birth safe, successful, or a particular kind of experience. And not because a woman needs someone else to give her strength.

But because the people beside her can either reinforce her relationship with herself, or slowly, sometimes unintentionally, ask her to hand it over.

Good support doesn’t say, I know what’s best for you.

It says, I am with you as you remain at the centre of this.

To offer knowledge without ownership.
Guidance without control.
Presence without taking over.

Because the power was never ours to give her.

It was hers all along.

13/08/2026

🌿 Pou Matua Rōpū | Parent Support Group 👶💛

Looking for a relaxed, friendly space to meet other parents, share experiences and build connections?

Come along to Barnardos Aotearoa Pou Matua Rōpū! It’s a welcoming, informal space where you can chat, connect and ask questions about all things baby. Our Barnardos childbirth educators will be there to support you and have a kōrero about whatever is on your mind.

☕ Refreshments and biscuits provided, because parenting is better with a cuppa and a biscuit! 😁

📍 Barnardos Bumps to Babies
117 Ruahine Street, Palmerston North
🚩 Just look for the Barnardos flag outside!
🗓️ Every Friday
⏰ 10am–12 noon

Come along, bring your pēpi, and stay for as little or as long as you like. Everyone is welcome! 💛

Feel free to share with a parent who might enjoy a friendly morning out.

07/08/2026

Labour & birth is one of the most vulnerable and transformative moments of your life.

The people in your labour room will shift the vibe.

Who you invite into our birthing space matters.

The things they say and the energy they carry will, most defiantly, influence you.

So this is your reminder you get to chose who you invite into your birthing space, you can change your mind even in the middle of labour, if you find yourself unable to get in the zone or feeling unsupported, change it up, ask people to step outside or to head home and see if that changes things and helps change the vibes.