Preparing for a Natural Birth

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Preparing for a natural birth involves both practical preparation and emotional readiness. By educating yourself, surrounding yourself with a supportive birth team, and staying flexible, you can approach labor with confidence and a sense of empowerment. Remember that every birth experience is unique, and the most important outcome is the health and well-being of you and your baby. Trust in your body’s ability to give birth and embrace the journey ahead with positivity and strength.

Bringing a child into the world is a transformative experience, especially when opting for a natural birth. It’s the test of all tests! There are many different reasons for choosing a natural birth which I discuss in my post Benefits of a Natural Birth.

Here we will discuss my personal experience on how to prepare and get through one of the hardest things you will ever do!

Educate Yourself:

Being prepared and knowing how to stay focused is the best thing you can do. Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions before, during and after labor.

I researched and read A LOT!

I’m not a big fan of social environments, so YouTube videos and books was my way to educate myself.

These videos were really helpful for me- Prenatal Class, Lamaze Crash Course

These are some books I recommend reading – Mindful Birthing, Natural Hospital Birth, Active Birth, and Ina May's Guide to Childbirth.

If you are a “group gathering” kind of person please find local childbirth education classes or workshops that focus on natural birth techniques, breathing exercises, and relaxation methods. My OB/midwife office always had a lot of resources.

Birth Plan:

Your birth plan should outline your preferences for labor and delivery, including pain management options, positions you prefer, and any special considerations. Click here for a free birth plan. This is the birth plan I used for my births. I pack a copy in the hospital bag and give to my midwife when I arrive. You can edit it to your liking and add your information for your personal use.

Choose a Supportive Birth Team:

Select healthcare providers who respect your desire for a natural birth and have experience supporting such births. There’s doulas that you can hire for additional support and advocacy during labor. I used midwives at my hospital and I absolutely loved them! They are such big supporters and will help guide you and support you in your decisions. My midwife team was so supportive in my decisions and stuck to my birth plan. They never tried to push anything on me or change my mind. They knew how much I wanted natural birth with all of my babies and did their best in every situation to make that happen. I was so grateful for them and their knowledge and blessed to have them by my side.

Involve your partner in discussions about your birth plan and the role they will play during labor. Ensure they understand your preferences and are prepared to provide emotional and physical support. Educate them in your decisions so they know what to expect and they can advocate for you if you cannot.

My husband was so supportive in all of my decisions and knew what I wanted so he could stand up for me if I couldn’t. Thankfully there was never a scenario where that had to happen. I’m so thankful for him and his support throughout the entire process.

Know When to Go to the Hospital or Birth Center:

Understand the signs of labor and when to contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital or birth center. Trust your instincts and seek medical assistance if you have concerns.

I stayed home with my first until my water broke and then my husband and mom basically forced me (in a caring, concerned way) to go to the hospital because they didn’t want me to have baby at home. (I would have been fine with that haha!) With my second my contractions got really close and fast so we went on to the hospital. With my third I had to be medically induced so I didn’t really have an option.

Hydration and Nutrition:

Staying hydrated and nourished is vital. The hospital usually provides a cup for water or you can take your own like this one. If you feel like eating, popsicles and nutritious snacks like granola bars, fruits, and crackers are great snacks. You want something light that will provide nutrients and energy.

I was not in the mood to eat during labor, just lots of water and ice chips. Since throwing up is a possibility, don’t over-eat. I had a big meal with my first while I was in early stages of labor while I was still feeling pretty good and it all came up later that night. Your body is preparing itself for this wild ride.

Advocate for Yourself:

Being educated and having a birth plan will really come in handy in advocating for yourself. Knowing your options is very helpful when communicating your needs and preferences clearly to your birth team. Ask questions if you need clarification and trust your instincts throughout the birthing process. Don’t be bullied into something you are not comfortable with. Stand your ground when it comes to your labor. I was very adamant on my decisions and choices and the only thing that would change that would be a medical emergency putting me and baby at risk.

Comfort Measures:

Being comfortable and knowing how to stay relaxed and work through the contractions is going to be the best thing you can do. You’ll learn different techniques in the books and videos I recommended above.

Experiment with positions that relieve discomfort, such as walking, swaying, sitting on a birthing ball, or a warm bath if available. Utilize breathing techniques and affirmations to stay focused.

Practice deep breathing, visualization, and mindfulness techniques to manage pain and reduce anxiety. These techniques can help you stay focused and calm.

Items like a birth ball (exercise ball), heating pad, cold pack or warm shower can provide relief during contractions. I used my exercise ball A LOT during pregnancy and during labor. The hospital provided one and I practically stayed on it the whole time. It can help bring on labor and help speed it up.

Your birthing partner can also help provide relief by putting pressure on your lower back during contractions. If they can get the right spot it really helps. My midwife was really helpful with showing my husband where to place his hands. Here is a helpful video that covers 4 Easy Ways to Relieve Pain in Labor with Counter Pressure.

Entertainment and Distraction:

Labor can be lengthy; having distractions like books, music playlists, or a tablet for watching shows or just scrolling social media can help pass the time and ease anxiety. I remember flipping through the tv channels over and over trying to find something to watch at the hospital. I don't know why I didn't just scroll social media! It would have been a lot more entertaining. Find what works best for you to take your mind off of the contractions.

Supportive Items for Your Birth Partner:

If you have a birth partner, consider their comfort also. Snacks, comfortable clothing, a charger for their devices, and any items that will help them support you effectively.

I got so hot during labor so it got cold in the room. My husband always had a jacket or hoodie.

Realistic Expectations:

Preparing for a natural birth involves both practical preparation and emotional readiness. By educating yourself, surrounding yourself with a supportive birth team, and staying flexible, you can approach labor with confidence and a sense of empowerment. While preparing and having a plan is important, remember that birth can be unpredictable. Remain open to unexpected developments or changes in your birth plan. Trust in your ability to adapt and make decisions that prioritize the health and safety of you and your baby. Every birth experience is unique, and the most important outcome is the health and well-being of you and your baby. Trust in your body’s ability to give birth and embrace the journey ahead with positivity and strength.

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