Keeping Everyone in the Loop

One of the biggest drains on mental energy before and during labour is communication. "Has anything happened?" "Any news?" "How are you feeling?"

Answering these questions individually is impossible. Even managing a single WhatsApp group can feel like too much work. Fern Labour solves this by letting you broadcast information to your Labour Circle in a way that suits the moment.

Level 1: Status Updates

For the "quiet followers"

Status updates are for the small things. "Trying the bath," "Eating some toast," "Things are slowing down."

• Who sees them: Anyone in your circle (Loved Ones, Support Persons, Birth Partners).
• How they see them: They appear in the "Updates" feed inside the app.
• Notifications: None. We don't send push notifications for these. This creates a low-pressure space where you can post at any time, even 3am, without worrying about waking anyone up.

Level 2: Announcements

For the big news

Announcements are for milestones. "Heading to hospital," "Baby is here!"

• Who sees them: Everyone.
• How they see them: These are broadcast. Depending on their notification settings, your circle will get an SMS or a WhatsApp message with the important news.
• Visuals: These appear with a distinct highlight in the feed so they can't be missed.

Level 3: App Messages

Just for you

Sometimes, Fern Labour will generate a message just for you. For example, when you start tracking contractions for the first time, the app will add a private note to your feed.

• Who sees them: Only you (and your Birth Partner).
• Sharing: You can choose to "Share as Announcement" if you want to let everyone know, but by default, these are private.

The Birth Partner’s Role

The best part about this system? You don't have to do it.

Your Birth Partner (or anyone with the Birth Partner role) can write and send these updates for you. They can write a quick update and post it to the feed, keeping your circle informed while you stay in your zone.