In our society where pain medication is often used for labor, many women and their doctors assume that epidural anesthesia is always part of giving birth. However, some expectant mothers are interested to find out how to have a natural birth, which is un-medicated labor and birth. Aside from being less expensive, it also has other benefits that women must know.If you intend to have a natural birth, the article will be a good one to read.
What Should I Know Before Having a Natural Birth?
1. Advantages of Having a Natural Birth
- Good for both mom and baby
Epidural anesthesia may slow down labor, so a woman is more likely to receive a uterine stimulant to increase her contractions which could reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the baby. Furthermore, the lack of oxygen may damage the baby's brain. Some women also develop fever, for which doctors may prescribe antibiotics that is bad for both mom and baby.
- Recover faster than an epidural
Women who undergo natural childbirth often feel better after delivery and are able to walk around and take a shower immediately. This is due to the release of natural pain-relieving hormones from the body.
- Increase the confidence of women
Natural childbirth makes women feel empowered and more confident to handle other life challenges. Having experienced the natural birth, women will believe in their body’s ability to handle pain.
2. Disadvantages of Having a Natural Birth
- Feel more pain than an epidural
Natural methods allow mothers to feel all the pain related to labor and childbirth. It is therefore suitable only for mothers who are healthy and able to tolerate pain. They must also be ready to practice meditation, breathing, and changing positions to reduce pain.
- Have higher risk of blood loss and other complications
Some mothers may experience more than a little blood loss during childbirth, and with no medications being used, they may faint or have other complications. Besides, some medical conditions, such as gestational diabetes or pre-eclampsia can increase your risk of complications during childbirth. So discuss your options with the doctor in advance.
What Should I Prepare for Having a Natural Birth?
1. Take a Birthing Class
Taking a birthing class that teaches about the natural process of labor can help you manage the pain. Techniques such as self-hypnosis, breathing, and relaxation, are taught in this kind of class. Try different classes until you find a suitable and satisfactory one.
2. Find an Experienced Doula
Doulas or birth attendants can provide effective birth support to help reduce the need for pain medications. They also help shorten labor, decrease your chance of getting a caesarean section, and help you start breastfeeding after delivery.
3. Read More Books about Natural Birth
Read more books about natural birth instead of relying on doctors or nurses in making decisionscan help you overcome fear about giving birth naturally.
4. Determine to Have a Home Birth or Go to Baby Center
Some women feel more relaxed while giving birth at home rather than the hospital. It can make the process easier and faster. Some may prefer to go to a birth center, which is designed for natural delivery with professional assistances. Choose the place that is more suitable for you.
What Can Be Done When Having a Natural Birth?
1. Practice Breathing
Labor can be stressful, so relaxation is the key to overcome the challenge. Practice breathing with diaphragm to help your muscles relax. It will also let your body go along with the process rather than fight against it.
2. Take a Walk
Experts often advise mothers to take a walk during early labor to relax the body. You can even do this with your husband in the park or just around the block. It helps you physically as well as mentally to reduce anxiety and fears about giving birth.
3. Have Someone Accompany You
Ask your husband, mother, best friend or a reliable duola to be with you during the process of natural childbirth. They can provide emotional support, which may help you manage the pain.
4. Change Positions and Move
Without medications, you can move around freely and try different positions to keep you comfortable. You can walk around, rest on a rocking chair, or change positions in bed. Moving helps shorten labor and makes you feel in control of your pain. You can also vary your position during delivery.Sitting upright can help the baby descend, andsquatting or kneelingcan widen the pelvic outlet.
5. Relax by Massage, Touch and Compress
Ask your husband or duola to massage or apply light strokes on your body to help you relax and reduce pain. This can make you feel good, especially for your lower back, but tell your support person if it annoys you. You can also try to apply a warm compress over your lower abdomen or back.
6. Soak in Warm Water
Hydrotherapy can help ease your discomfort and allow you to remain in control. This consists of soaking in a tub of water to promote relaxation of muscles and reduce pain. The water temperature must be at comfortable levels and not too hot for you or the baby. However, this method may not be advisable for women whose water bag has broken, becauseof the risk of getting infected. Instead, you can take a warm shower to help you relax.
You can find more tips for natural birth from the video: