Preparing for Natural Childbirth

In the majority of cases, a natural (meaning vaginal and unmedicated) childbirth is the best option for having a healthy delivery.  It also means that you will be lucid and ready to see, hold and nurse you baby once they are born.  While most women plan on having a natural birth, many change their minds when the pain gets too bad.  If you really want to have a natural childbirth, but aren’t sure you’ll stick with it; try these methods for preparing for natural childbirth.

The first step in succeeding in natural childbirth is to make your decision and be confident about it.  You’ve probably heard someone say (or said it yourself) that they’re going to “try” to have a natural childbirth.  Saying you’ll try shows no commitment or confidence in your decision.  Instead of “trying” natural childbirth; state that you are “going to go natural”.  Being confident that this is what your want to do is actually a big step in making the labor more bearable.  If you expect you’ll be in horrible pain, you’re more likely to actually be in pain. 

If you are really serious about natural childbirth and are not considered a high-risk pregnancy, you may want to consider hiring people to help to deliver your baby that are more likely to support you choice to give birth naturally.  Instead of having a doctor, you can use a midwife.  They’re more supportive of childbirth, and they have experience helping moms birth naturally.  You may also want to consider hiring a doula.  They are basically a paid, naturalistic child birthing coach.  When you have someone there reminding you why you made the decision of natural childbirth and pushing you to continue, sticking with it can be easier. 

Most people who have, or are trying to have a natural birth end up taking some kind of birthing class, usually Bradley classes or other types.  These courses teach you how to use relaxing breathing and other pain management techniques to get through the labor naturally.  

Once you get into the delivery room if you're birthing in hospital, make sure everyone is aware of your wish to have a natural childbirth.  You can instruct doctors not to use interventions unless they are medically necessary.  You may want to consider a natural birth at home if you're a low risk category. A woman's perception of pain is different when she is at home and able to control her experience more.

Another excellent tip is to read birth stories and books on preparing for natural childbirth. The purpose of this is to expose yourself to childbirth as a family event and rite of passage, not a medical event or emergency. Here are a few examples: Books On Natural Childbirth