Travelling to Hospital in Labour - Central Scotland Birth Tips
- Joy
- Mar 8
- 3 min read
Most of the parents I work with plan to give birth in hospital or at the Birth Centre in Edinburgh. That means at some point, you’ll need to move from the safety of home to your chosen place of birth and that journey can sometimes throw you off your rhythm.
It’s common for contractions to feel strong at home but then slow down when you arrive at hospital. Why? Because oxytocin, the hormone that fuels labour, flows best when you feel calm, safe and supported. Stressful thoughts about roadworks, parking or timing can disrupt that flow.
The good news: with a little preparation, you can keep yourself in the labour zone. Here are my top tips.
Top Tip 1: Plan Your Route
Before labour, practise the drive to your chosen hospital or birth centre. Time how long it takes at different times of day, note any potential delays, and check alternative routes.
Top Tip Box: Knowing the way reduces stress and helps you stay focused on labour, not traffic.
Top Tip 2: Taxi Preparation
If you’ll be taking a taxi, phone local companies in advance to check their policies on transporting women in labour. Most are accommodating, but some may ask you to bring a towel or have specific requirements.
Top Tip 3: Comfortable Seating
Many women prefer sitting in the back seat for more space. A rolled-up towel under your bum can elevate your pelvis and make things more comfortable. Always strap in safely, and pop a towel on the seat in case your waters break.
Top Tip 4: Hospital Parking
Arriving at hospital can feel overwhelming. Find out in advance where the maternity car park or drop-off point is, and whether you’ll need coins, a card, or a ticket. Knowing this avoids last-minute stress.
Top Tip 5: Comfort Measures in the Car
Bring along tools that keep you grounded during contractions:
TENS machine
Music or hypnobirthing tracks on headphones
Hot water bottle for your back or thighs
Relaxing scents or hypnobirthing anchors
Breathing and visualisation techniques
Top Tip 6: Calm Driving
Your driver’s job? Get you there safely and calmly. No fast corners or bumpy rides - steady, smooth driving is best for everyone’s nerves - there is no need to become Lewis Hamilton!
Top Tip 7: Handling Rapid Labours
Rapid (precipitous) labours are rare, especially for first-time births. But if you feel the urge to push before you’ve left the house, stay put and call your labour ward or 999. If you’re already in the car, pull over safely and call for help.
Top Tip Box: Trust your instincts - if you feel baby is coming fast, don’t push on with the journey.
Final Thoughts
Travelling to hospital in labour doesn’t have to derail your calm. With preparation and a few simple comfort tools, you can stay steady and supported until you’re settled in your birthing space.
I’m Joy - an antenatal teacher, breastfeeding counsellor and perinatal therapist based in Linlithgow, West Lothian. For almost 20 years I’ve been helping families across Edinburgh, the Lothians and Central Scotland prepare for birth and early parenthood with confidence, calm, and evidence-based support.
In my relaxed, small-group antenatal classes in Linlithgow, we cover everything from hospital preparation and comfort strategies to partner support and postnatal life so you leave feeling ready, not overwhelmed.
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