Everyone has a different birth experience. Every birth is beautiful. It is a goal for some to have a natural childbirth and, for others, it’s the last thing they want. I wanted to have my baby without medical intervention for a few reasons. I know God designed my body to give birth and actually be able to do it with little pain. I read many books before I gave birth and did lots of research.
I have nothing wrong with epidurals and medication. In fact, I took medicine after birth to help with recovery. There was just something about giving birth naturally that intrigued and inspired me. I had to try it. I also wanted freedom during my labor. I didn’t want to be stuck in bed because of the epidural. Movement helps me relax and relieve pain. I knew if I couldn’t get up and move, I would be miserable.
These tips may not work for you, but this is what helped me have the natural childbirth I was hoping for! Here are 5 tips for a natural birth- if that’s your thing!
1- BREATHE
Cliche. I know. But honestly, breathing can get you through the pain. I have been practicing breathing for years because of my love for yoga. Close your eyes, breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds and out through your mouth for 5-6 seconds. Try to make your exhale longer than your inhale. Do not do the Lamaze quick breathing. This is not relaxing at all and makes you run out of air.
2- MUSIC
I brought my iPhone and my beats pill wireless speaker. The Album Leaf station on Pandora is what I listened to throughout my whole labor (even at home). This music will instantly give you peace. It also sets the tone for the room. When the nurses or doctor would come in, they would comment on how peaceful and calming it was. I don’t know about you, but I want my doctor to be calm. Whatever works.
3- MY OWN BLANKET
There is just something about having something from home that comforts me. For me, it was this brown fluffy blanket. I loved this blanket and it kept me calm, cozy, and warm. But yes… it ended up in the hospital garbage can after labor.
4- HYPNOBIRTHING
If you are going to read any book before labor read Hypnobirthing by Marie Mongan. Lifesaver.
5- HELPFUL SUPPORT PERSON
My husband rocks. He helped make my labor and delivery smooth and peaceful. He made sure the lighting stayed dim in the delivery room. He set up the pandora station (see #2). He made sure there wasn’t a lot of people coming in and out of the room. He also got me ice chips.It can be your husband, your mom, a doula. It just really helps to have one good support person in the room.
Remember you are strong. Your body was designed for this. You can do it.
“We have a secret in our culture. It’s not that birth is painful, it’s that women are strong.”
Laura Stavoe Harm
In the end, we all want a healthy baby! These are tips that help labor overall, not just natural childbirth 😀
