Childbirth Tips For A Natural Birth

While giving birth is one of the most natural processes of a woman’s body, it’s also one of the most painful. However, many women balance that suffering with what they believe would be the best for their body and baby, opting for a natural childbirth rather than having an epidural. Your childbirth plan is extremely personal, and, ultimately, medical staff will do their best to ensure they follow yours as closely to your specifications as possible. If you’re planning a natural childbirth, here are some tips to make the process go as smoothly as possible.

1. Do Your Research

While it’s true that women have been giving birth throughout history, that doesn’t mean that it’s self-explanatory. Regardless of whether you are looking to use available medicinal aides, or would rather skip the drugs altogether, you’ll be comforted to know what to expect. If you change your mind about not having the epidural, some basic information will let you know when that’s still an option. It can also inform you on what to expect if your doctor needs to perform an episiotomy after the delivery.

2. Listen to Your Physician

Most OB-GYN centers have teams of doctors rather than one physician, and they want to make sure you have the most healthful delivery possible. If your doctor thinks an epidural, Pitocin, or other medications are in you or your baby’s best interest, listen. You may like one doctor more than another, but they all want you to have a positive delivery and a healthy baby. If your pregnancy is already high-risk and a C-section is a possibility, your doctor may want you prepped for such an eventuality, and an epidural early can save time in a crisis.

3. Take Care of Yourself

All pregnant women should be going the extra mile to take care of themselves and their growing babies. It’s particularly crucial to be at your most healthy if you decide a drug-free pregnancy is best for you. The fewer complications you have, the higher the chance you’ll be able to follow all aspects of your birth plan.

4. Have a Pain-Management Plan

Epidural vs. non-epidural use is a common discussion and debate among mothers who have been through labor and delivery. What none of them debate is that delivering a baby hurts – that precious baby is worth all the pain, but you still need a plan for handling it. Learn to relax your mind and practice breathing techniques. Many women feel relief from partner massage or music. Keep in mind, too, that movement will help gravity do some of the work.

Labor and delivery isn’t easy for anyone – whether they have a drug-free pregnancy or a C-section. What matters most is your health and the health of your new baby. Whatever your birth plan, try not to be married to one idea and trust your medical team.