Ep 1. Episode 1

One Born Every Minute is a British television documentary series that follows the happenings at a busy maternity ward. The show is based at Southampton's Princess Anne Hospital and is known for its real-life, raw and emotional depictions of childbirth.

Season 3 of One Born Every Minute opens with episode 1. The episode gives an up-close and personal look at the heartwarming stories of various couples as they prepare to have a baby. It is a fantastic portrayal of the highs and lows, the challenges and the joys experienced by expectant parents.

The episode features soon-to-be parents, Jo and Mike, who are awaiting the arrival of their first child. Jo is a single mother and is planning on giving birth without the presence of the baby's father. Four years ago, Jo's own mother passed away from cancer, and she wants to honor her mother's memory by having her sister present in the delivery room. However, Jo's sister has never seen a birth before and is quite anxious.

As Jo is preparing to go into labor, she expresses her wishes to have an epidural, but her sister seems to disagree. The episode showcases the support Jo receives from the hospital's midwives and her sister. Jo finds solace and comfort in her sister's presence. Despite the nerves and anxiety, Jo's sister assists her through her delivery, and both sisters share an incredibly emotional moment.

The episode also portrays the story of Alexis and Ryan, who are also awaiting the arrival of their first child. Alexis is in labor, and the couple is quite excited, although Ryan does not fully comprehend the gravity of the situation. Alexis feels the pain of labor, but the room is filled with warm embraces and support. With a midwife by her side, Alexis braces herself for the oncoming contractions.

The episode also shows another couple, Chio and Sidny, who are waiting for their second child. After an unfortunate birth experience with their first child, Chio is adamant to avoid the same path with her second. Chio is acutely aware of her options and wants to make sure everything goes smoothly this time around. The episode stands out for its support of women's choices. Chio is elated to have her partner by her side through labor and feels incredibly supported by the midwives.

A third expecting couple featured in the episode are Shavonne and Collin. The couple's excitement is palpable, and they are eagerly waiting for their first child. However, they are hit with sudden changes in the pregnancy, which makes them anxious. The episode showcases how the midwives are able to keep the couple calm and collected while going through labor.

The episode is peppered with moments of comedy, sweetness, and anxiety. It manages to take the viewer on an emotional rollercoaster while remaining realistic. It shines a light on the incredible work being done by maternity ward staff, and how they make it possible for couples to experience some of the happiest moments in their lives. The show is fantastic at creating a welcoming environment and makes the viewer feel like they are part of the process as well.

In conclusion, One Born Every Minute season 3 episode 1 is a great watch. It showcases the various experiences that come with childbirth, and how different couples manage the moments leading up to it. It is heartwarming, nerve-wracking, and everything in between. Viewers are sure to leave the episode with a newfound appreciation for maternity ward staff and the incredibly human experiences they help bring into this world.