Bringing a new life into the world is one of life’s most extraordinary experiences. While it’s a time filled with anticipation and excitement, it’s natural to feel a sense of the unknown about childbirth. Here’s how to prepare for a positive birth experience – one that emphasizes your preferences while embracing the need for flexibility.
Things to consider when preparing for a positive birth experience:
Put Together a Birth Plan
A birth plan outlines your preferred choices for your labor and delivery, including things like:
- Your desired birth setting (e.g., hospital, birth center, or home)
- Labor support in the delivery suite (e.g., partner, parent, sibling, friend)
- Pain management techniques (e.g., epidural, laughing gas)
- The type of both you hope to have (e.g., natural, cesarean)
- Other considerations related to medical procedures and newborn care
A good birth plan provides your care team with an understanding of your expectations. However, be flexible. Birth plans should be used as a roadmap, not the destination. The baby may come sooner than expected, or an emergency cesarean section is required. Things out of our control happen, so being flexible is important. The unpredictable nature of birth means that things sometimes play out differently than expected. Therefore, think of a birth plan as a framework while leaving room for the flow of labor. It’s ok if your final experience takes a different direction.
Understanding Your Options
Get familiar with different childbirth scenarios to feel informed and empowered during decision-making. For example, different types of childbirth include:
- Epidural – A commonly used form of pain relief; an anesthetic is injected into the lower back region.
- Natural/unmedicated Childbirth – Focuses on labor-management techniques like breathing exercises, relaxation, and changing positions without pain medication.
- Cesarean Delivery – Involves surgical delivery of the baby, conducted when medically necessary or upon the mother’s request.
Discuss various childbirth scenarios that you would like to have with your OBGYN. If you need clarification, then ask about recommendations based on your case.
Education Is Power
Take the time to find out more information about different aspects of childbirth. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel. Consider the following:
- Childbirth classes – A great place to learn some helpful tips and tricks about labor
- Credible books and reliable online resources – Learn more about the labor stages, breathing techniques, pain management options, and newborn care.
Choose Your Support Team
This is more than a birth partner. Your team may include a doula (non-medical labor support coach), midwives, or an attentive obstetrician. This also includes your support team or the people you want present during the labor, such as your partner, close friend, or other family member.
Open Communication
If you have doubts, questions, or concerns, be sure to speak to your doctor or someone on your healthcare team about them. Clear communication about issues on your mind ensures that everyone is on the same page and that you’re more at ease when the big day arrives.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Think yoga, meditation, and deep breathing. They can lower stress and promote an increased sense of calmness. These may also support you during labor itself.
Before Labor Day (The Big Event!)
- Prepare Mentally – Imagine your body working for you. Focus on relaxation techniques, visualize a peaceful birth, and pack some comfort items (music, pictures, essential oils, etc.)
- Prepare Physically – Sleep well, eat nourishing foods, and stay active throughout pregnancy. Strength and stamina boost your ability to withstand the demanding process of labor.
- Comfort Zone – Have a bag ready with familiar items – music, comfy clothes, a giant pillow– anything that instills a sense of peace when things feel chaotic.
- Be Gentle With Yourself – Birth journeys come in different variations filled with highs and potentially challenging moments. Birth is dynamic, and your ability to adapt can help maintain a sense of calm and control. Prepare yourself mentally for potential shifts from your birth plan, reminding yourself that the ultimate goal is the safe delivery of a healthy baby.
A positive birth experience means different things to each woman. Whether your dream delivery was achieved or circumstances dictated a different course, embrace the beauty, strength, and accomplishment of bringing your baby into the world. And remember to appreciate the power of seeking supportive people to share your experiences.