IF you've even given birth, you will know how excruciating labour can be – the only thing you wish in the moment is for it to end as soon as possible.

But, according to a birthing expert, there are a couple of things which actually slow down the process and, in fact, make it even more unpleasant.

Emily, who's helped numerous families and parents with childbirth education and postpartum planning, has gathered all the necessary information, which she shared on her Instagram account.

According to her, one of the things that can slow your labour down – and one we had never even thought of – is bright lighting.

The research by the University Hospital of South Manchester confirms this – it's best to avoid switching on all the lights.

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The next thing, Emily revealed, is having strangers in your birth place, whether that's hospital or your home.

Giving birth is a very intimate process and being surrounded by people you don't know that well will only make you feel less at ease.

It is impossible to relax and focus when all you can think about is the strange pair of eyes observing every second of what is one of the most personal moments of your life.

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The following things on list also included leaving your house to go to the nearby hospital or birth centre, as well as not eating and drinking – although you might feel nauseous, it's important to have at least something to give you the necessary energy.

Just as important as eating and drinking is also going to the toilet.

Emily insisted that having a full bladder is also a common reason why women experience longer labour.

In her experience of dealing with clients, the birthing expert also believed that sometimes labour can be slowed down due to past trauma.

Although triggers come unexpected, it's best to make sure you are fully comfortable with your surroundings – whatever works for you.

And last but not least – there's not much we can do about it, but Emily added that the baby's position is also a huge factor.

Many were confused as to how to minimise the amount of strangers, especially when at a hospital.

''Having at least one person of familiarity who is supporting you continuously (like a doula if possible!), also, if you have access to in hospital midwifery care, they tend to be in the room with you a bit more often.

''Next would be saying no to students in your room, and then making sure you feel confident asking for a new nurse if you’re current one is bringing in vibes that you don’t click with,'' Emily suggested.

Plus, read our investigation on maternity wards in crisis – with mums labouring in car parks, babies developing sepsis & midwives on anti-depressants.

Meanwhile, a mum gave birth to a 12lb baby – 'I had to dress him in six-month-old clothes as a newborn & doctors gasped when he arrived'.

Also, this woman gave birth to the wrong couple's baby – she’s now finally reunited with her real parents.

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