Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don’t worry, I’ve got you, girl! I am your local Pottsgrove baby photographer and I have done the research for you!
Here are 10 secrets your baby doctor probably didn’t tell you about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control.
(And hey, if these pique your interest, bring them up to your doctor at the next appointment!)
At the bottom of this post I have already created a downloadable question checklist you can bring to your next appointment! Courtesy of your Pottsgrove baby photographer!
1. You don’t have to give birth in the hospital.
Giving birth at home or in a birth center can provide a more relaxed and private setting. Birthing your baby at home allows you to have more control over the birthing process you want and can provide a more personalized experience. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births.
Question for your doctor: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?
2. Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.
Epidurals are an extremely common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. You can be comfortable without worrying about an epidural. Be sure to discuss your best option with your doctor before you go into labor.
Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural?
3. You can bring your own music or sounds to the delivery room.
Music can have a powerful impact on our emotions, and it can help create a calm and soothing environment for you during labor. You can bring your own playlist, a sound machine, or even your own voice (or voice of loved one) to help you relax and focus during labor.
Question for your doctor: Can I bring music to the birthing room?
Here is my favorite playlist on spotify. This is a mix of soothing sounds that will help refocus your mind while putting you at ease.
4. Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor.
Warm water can help ease the pain and discomfort of contractions, and it also allows you to move around more easily, which can help deliver the baby in a more comfortable way. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor. For home births here is a location you could rent a birthing pool.
Question for your doctor: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?
5. You will probably poop during labor (and that’s okay!).
Let’s acknowledge the fact that no one wants to think about this part! This is totally understandable AND it’s a normal and natural part of the birthing process. This factor of labor is nothing to be embarrassed about.
6. Birthing positions – there are many different positions that can help make the birthing of your baby easier.
There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.
Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?
7. Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth.
A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and their partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth. As a Pottsgrove baby photographer I love connecting with local doulas to learn how to best serve local moms.
Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?
8. You can eat and drink during labor, if you want to.
Having a light snack can help keep your energy levels up. It’s important for women to listen to their body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished.
Check with your doctor and birthing team before eating. Some great options to snack on are apples, bananas, avocado, and toast. Check out this article all about great foods to eat during labor.
Question: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?
9. The power of the mind – visualization and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.
Medication is not the only way to help ease the pain of labor. Visualization and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable.
Question: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?
10. Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.
C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It’s important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.
Question: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections?
So, there you have it, mama. You’re armed with some new information that will hopefully help you feel more confident and excited about your birth! As promised here is a done for you list of all the questions to ask at your next doctor appointment!
I have already created a short blog to help you know when to book your maternity photos here!
