What is Natural Childbirth?
Natural childbirth is loosely defined as giving birth without drugs or other external interventions. For some it may only mean giving birth without the aid of pain medications, to others it means giving birth at home.
Who is Natural Childbirth For?
Natural childbirth is for anyone who chooses it. This method of giving birth should pose no threat to women who are healthy and well nourished. Natural childbirth can take place in any setting; hospital, birthing center, clinic, or at home. These decisions are for the parents and families to make according their preferences and desires.
How Do I Prepare For Natural Childbirth?
Prepare a birth plan. A birth plan can help you describe where to give birth and who you would like to be there; you support system. It can also direct you through your pregnancy and help you to ask the right questions. For instance, if you choose to give birth, naturally, in a hospital setting, you may want to find out what interventions are routine for that facility. Some facilities use electronic monitoring of your pains, or they use IV fluids when you first come to the hospital. These are things you need to address in advance.
Read everything you can about natural childbirth and the options that are available to you. Attend natural childbirth classes if they are offered in your area.
Some women prefer, and indeed recommend, getting a doula. A doula is a professional who can lend encouragement to you during labor. She is also there for emotional and psychological support. Some doulas are specifically trained in the postpartum area of childbirth, as the birth of a new baby brings its own kind of transformation to a family.
Surround yourself with the support of family, friends, loved ones, or anyone who will be there for you.
Prepare yourself physically by getting enough exercise. Breathing exercises will also be invaluable to you as you go into labor. Enroll in an exercise class for expectant mothers. And, above all, get the correct nutrition.
Prepare yourself mentally. Make no mistake; the process of giving birth is not easy. By choosing natural childbirth, you accepting the fact that you will have to endure pain and discomfort. The breathing exercises mentioned above can help you relax and withstand the birthing pains. Remember to be flexible, also. Even though you have gone to great lengths to prepare a birthing plan, there are some things that may become out of your control. If yours or your baby’s well being depends on some level of intervention, then make that choice wisely.
What Are The Benefits?
Though natural childbirth may seem overwhelming during the process, your body will heal and recuperate much faster than if you have an epidural or pain medications.
Your baby will arrive alert and active if they have not been subjected to drugs and other outside interventions.
You, too, remain alert. You can have an active role when the time comes to push the baby out.
Many mothers who give birth naturally say that they felt empowered and are left with a deep sense of accomplishment afterward.
