Ep 5. Episode 5

One Born Every Minute is a British television series which captures the incredible moments that families experience in the delivery room. In this fourth season, episode five showcases a variety of expectant mothers – some first-time moms and others who have already experienced childbirth. The episode title, "Episode 5," hints at the unpredictable nature of childbirth, as each birth story unfolds differently from the next.

The episode begins with a young couple, Sophie and Mike, who are expecting their first child. The couple met on a dating app and have been inseparable ever since. Sophie is nervous about giving birth, but Mike's sense of humor keeps her calm. Sophie's labor progresses slowly, and the midwives on duty decide to break her waters to speed up the process. However, when the midwife checks on the baby's position, she realizes that the baby is breech. A breech birth is when the baby is positioned feet-first, instead of head-first, and this can cause complications during delivery. The midwives quickly realize that Sophie needs to be transferred to a hospital, where a consultant can perform an emergency cesarean section. The episode captures the tension and anxiety that comes with an unexpected turn of events, as the couple waits for their baby to arrive in the operating room.

Next, we meet Lucy and Adam, who are expecting their fourth child. Lucy has had three previous natural births, and she is determined to have one again. However, when the midwife checks Lucy's cervix, she discovers that the baby is still in the breech position. The midwives call in a consultant, who recommends that Lucy go through with a vaginal breech birth. A vaginal breech birth is a rare occurrence, and it requires a great deal of skill from the medical professionals involved. The episode showcases the incredible strength and courage of Lucy as she gives birth to her daughter, with the help of the midwives and a consultant.

The episode also features a couple, Holly and Neil, who are expecting their third child. Holly has had two previous natural births, and this time, she wants to try hypnobirthing techniques. Hypnobirthing is a method of childbirth that focuses on relaxation and breathing techniques, with the aim of reducing pain and anxiety during labor. The episode captures the couple's mindfulness exercises and their preparations for a calm and peaceful birth. As Holly's labor progresses, she uses the hypnobirthing techniques to remain focused and in control. The episode shows the power of the mind-body connection and the benefits of alternative birthing techniques.

Finally, we meet Abi, who is expecting her first child with her partner, Dan. Abi has a phobia of needles, which has made her apprehensive about giving birth in a hospital setting. She has decided to have a home birth, with the support of a midwife. The episode captures the preparation that goes into a home birth, with the couple setting up a birthing pool in their living room. As Abi's labor progresses, she uses a variety of techniques, including massage and breathing exercises, to cope with the pain. The episode showcases the intimacy and privacy that a home birth can provide, as Abi and Dan welcome their daughter into the world surrounded by their loved ones.

Overall, One Born Every Minute Season 4 Episode 5 captures the highs and lows of childbirth, showcasing the incredible strength and resilience of women and their partners during the birthing process. The episode highlights the importance of skilled medical professionals, who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. Ultimately, this episode reminds viewers that every birth story is unique and unpredictable, but each one is a testament to the incredible power of human life.