Natural delivery just like any form of childbirth undoubtedly takes the accolade of the most interesting occasion of human times. Its occurrence has since taken a drastic change with various options all thanks to the modern world, and its technologies. Most hospitals have embraced the modern technique therefore offering more comfortable and safer environments for new mothers. With the medical technologies in place, new mothers now have options when it comes to delivery.
Study has it that 75% of the new generation moms opt for Cesarean Section Delivery (other wisely known as CS), which Wikipedia puts a meaning to as ‘the surgical delivery of a baby by an incision through the mother’s abdomen (belly) and uterus (womb).’ Initially this used to be done as a faster and safer method in response to any emergency or complication with the hope of saving both mother and child. That is water under the bridge all thanks to the surgical technique upgrade that still grants hope on vaginal deliveries after the CS.
Despite the grand embrace of CS, quite a number still go through the natural birth option alias Vaginal Delivery. This option involves either minimal or no medical intervention which most gynecologists advise on. As simple as it sounds birthing a child minus the use of drugs is not a walk in the park. It involves a lot of commitments and pain. However, certain measures need to be put in place for an almost easy, safe, and natural delivery.
Let’s walk through a safe Natural Childbirth:
Enroll for childbirth lesson
There’s a whole load of information about staying healthy during pregnancy / gestation but there’s hardly none on childbirth. This leaves you as a new mom blank with numerous questions. Well, the childbirth classes are here to quench your thirst. The instructors will take you through the birth process and enlighten you on what to expect all through from the very first contraction to delivery. The lessons also highlight on labor pain and its management techniques. You may choose to take these lessons from your gynecologist during anti-natal visits but that won’t be enough information to grant you the confidence you need.
Have a detailed birth plan
A birth plan is simply a mirror to your expectations and preferences as a mother. It has you at the center of decision-making when it comes to the choices, and procedures expected during delivery. A birth plan has minor details like who should be present in the delivery room, your take on breastfeeding and if you want to practice, it and possibly a preferred name for the baby. This helps massage your ego hence making you feel confident and in charge.
Pick your hospital of choice that values Natural Birth
Going through natural delivery requires absolute patience and tolerance. It therefore helps to be within a familiar environment, and in trusted hands. Making a prior choice saves you from last minute research and hustle hence feeling more relaxed and comfortable. It also comes as a precaution to be among people who have your health record and history.
Observe your Diet
Giving birth is a marathon that requires well-built energy hence you should stay healthy during pregnancy to remain strong. It is advisable you take foods rich in protein like yogurt, fish, milk, meat, beans, and cheese. Keep off too much sugar and salt and consume plenty water for your nourishment and to keep hydrated
Be flexible and physically fit
More than often doctors’ advice on remaining active during pregnancy, this is basically to help you keep fit. Most women who exercise during pregnancy are known to have the baby in the best position always, have an easy delivery, loose baby fat faster after delivery, and hardly suffer constipation. It is however proper to consult your doctor before engaging in any form of exercise.
Consider having a Doula
A doula is a well-trained none healthcare practitioner, who stays by your side throughout labor and delivery to offer moral support, encouragement, and advice where necessary. A doula doubles up as your coach and masseuse, offers lessons in labor, childbirth, and reflexology. The study has it that hiring a good doula helps cut downtime spent during labor.
Be physically and psychologically prepared
Labor is a mysterious marathon, some are short while others last several hours or days feels like an endless race. Preparing for labor is braving up for mental tortures with massive pain. It involves practicing a workable breathing pattern aligned with a reliable body movement. Getting into labor with a mindset of It’s been done severally before is total failure, every journey is different and must be treated as such.
Consider child birth lessons to help you learn new techniques like Lamaze and Yoga. These will help you to calm down and worry less.
Stay home during early labor
The early stages of labor happen to be the longest part during delivery; it may last up to 3 days with shorter labor intervals. Doctors usually advise you stay home during this period until the contractions get stronger. Being home and with your loved ones reduce chances of panic.
As you go through early labor try find any form of destruction to avoid concentrating on contractions. Get a pain relieving massage from either your partner or doula. Shift your sitting position regularly; if possible take short walk within the house and finally take a warm bath. All these will help you ease the pain until you get to active labor then it’s time to visit the hospital.
Believe you can
Women are considered a stronger species; this is mainly because of the ability to handle childbirth. As much as every woman is different you are also unique in your kind of way, cheer up and find confidence in your strength.
Think about your birth plan, preparations and reasons for doing this. Live in the moment with excitement of meeting your baby soon, this should keep you psyched up. Lighten up at the thought of being able to bring another life to birth and focus on the goal of safe delivery.
Natural birth may be a long and agonizing journey but it grants a baby beneficial bacterial which helps boost its immune system. It also naturally warrants fewer days in the hospital with no surgical risks and is pocket-friendly.