How to Prepare for Natural Childbirth

Just as no two children are exactly alike, no two deliveries are identical. When deciding whether to give birth naturally without drugs or to have an epidural, you must understand that childbirth is an individual choice. Every pregnant woman must make the decision what is personally best for her. Whatever your decision, expect the unexpected and prepare for the inevitable pain of childbirth.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Choose your doctor or midwife carefully. Choose someone who supports a woman's right to natural delivery and is experienced with pain management.
2. Create a birthing plan with your doctor or midwife, outlining what you would like to have happen during the delivery and what you want if you change your mind.
3. Decide where you will deliver. Make sure that the location's environment supports natural childbirth. Visit the location to prepare your mind for giving birth there.
4. Select a doula or labor partner that you trust. Attend birthing classes together and a person who can help you prepare emotionally. Be picky when choosing who will witness the birth of your child.
5. Sign up for and attend a childbirth class such as Lamaze or Bradley. Make sure the class and teacher support natural childbirth. Have your labor partner attend these classes with you.
6. Practice meditation and deep relaxation daily. Exercise often, a healthy body is much more likely to be able to deliver naturally.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not discuss your plans with every person you meet. Everyone will have a horror story that you may not want to hear
• Do not be afraid to change classes or partners if you feel uncomfortable.