How to Choose Natural Childbirth

Surgical and medicated birth are so routine these days, that people forget natural, drug-free childbirth is still an option. While there are many instances where surgical birth is necessary, the "elective" c-section rate is on the rise, world wide. If you have ever considered having a drug-free birth, this article is for you!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• The desire to have a natural, drug-free birth.
• A supportive family/partner.
• A supportive medical provider.

1. You and your partner will need to be in agreement on what kind of birth experience you wish to have.
   Discuss all of your options in detail.
   Should you choose to go the drug-free route,there may come a time when your partner will be doing a lot of speaking for you. How can someone who doesn't agree with you speak for you? You must absolutely be united in the decision to choose natural childbirth.

2. You will need a health-care provider who supports natural childbirth and your desire for such a birth. You will also need to make sure you will be delivering at a hospital that supports natural childbirth. Ask a lot of questions and ask for a tour of the birthing facilities. If you are ever made to feel like you are asking too many questions, then you may need to search for a new provider.

3. Have a birth plan. If you are unfamiliar with what a birth plan is, do an online search. There are numerous sites out there that can help you document your birthing preferences. Make your plan as detailed as possible, and give copies to your doctor/midwife, labor & delivery nurse, and have extra copies with you as your date approaches.

4. Take a childbirth class that promotes drug-free birth. HypnoBirthing®, The Bradley Method and Lamaze are all good choices worth exploring.

5. Consider hiring a doula--or professional birth companion. A doula's presence frees up your partner to support you and participate fully in the birth experience, while the doula helps to keep you hydrated and comforted.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't listen to others' birth "horror stories." This will only undermine your confidence that you can do this drug-free.
• Stay healthy! A healthy body and mind are much more likely to have complication free birth, thus increasing your chances of not having to have medical intervention.
• Take time everyday to relax--you will need your rest for labor and for after the delivery!
• It's always okay to ask questions and to find a health-care provider with whom you agree, just remember getting proper medical care during pregnancy benefits both mother and baby. Now is not the time to "do it yourself"! Find a provider you respect and listen to them!
• You will need to be in otherwise good health for natural childbirth to be a viable option. Surgical birth is necessary for mothers with certain conditions/ailments.

Resources

• BirthPlan.com
• HypnoBirthing: The Mongan Method
• Doulas of North America