A MUM-of-three and birthing expert has opened a unique fertility and birthing centre.

Steph Grainger, from Chelmsford, held a special launch event for The Nesting Place, Little Waltham Road, Broomfield.

She is an experienced fertility and birth consultant, as well as a hypno-birthing practitioner and hypnotherapist.

The mum has been supporting new mums and dads across Essex since 2010.

The Nesting Place is Chelmsford’s only independent fertility, pregnancy and birthing centre.

It will offer a regular programme of activities for new parents, including fertility and pregnancy reflexology, hypno-birthing classes, baby massage and other activities.

Reflexology is an alternative medicine involving application of pressure to the feet and hands.

Ms Grainger said new parents are given mixed messages about how to raise children the right way from conception to birth and in the days, weeks and years after.

She added: “With such an important and life-changing responsibility, it’s easy to buy into advice from relatives and other parents and start to worry about how they’re ever going to know what’s right for them and their child.

“The Nesting Place is all about plain talking and creating an atmosphere where prospective mums and dads can learn how to enjoy their journey into parenthood and beyond.”

She added: “The centre is my dream, a physical hub for expectant parents to discover all they need to know about preg - nancy and parenthood in a safe, comfortable, non-judgemental, supportive environment.

“I know from talking and coaching families over the past few years how much it is needed.

“I have a team of associates and expert consultants running classes on different elements, ensuring that everyone who attends gets the advice and attention they deserve.”

To find out more about the centre, visit www.thenestingplace.co.uk