Birth beyond the basics: 10 secrets for a more informed and comfortable delivery | Hamilton County, Indiana

10 Things That You Didn’t Know About Birth

Hey there mama! Are you feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth? But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! 

Here are 10 things your doctor and your friends 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 these up to your doctor at the next appointment! Here is a list of questions you can take with you to your next appointment) 

1 – You don’t have to give birth in the hospital.

Giving birth at home or in a birth center can provide a more relaxing and intimate setting for the birth of your baby. Alterative birthing locations allows you to have more control over the birthing process and can provide a more personalized experience for you and your family. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births. 

2 – Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.

Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. 

Other forms of medical pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and local anesthesia.

Natural pain relief can include but is not limited to breathing /relaxing techniques, acupuncture/acupressure, and massage, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy and TENS device. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.  It is really important to have a good support team to help you with your natural birth.

Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they often see that’s effective other than epidural? What Pain relief options do you support?

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 to help you relax and focus during labor.

4 – Birthing pools or tubs 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 the baby move down the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor.  Unfortunately, most hospitals in Indiana will not allow you to deliver in a tub. It can be unsettling to be forced out of the tub during the pushing phase.  If you really want to deliver in water, you will want to consider giving birth at home or in a birthing center with a pool.

5 – You will probably poop during labor (and that’s okay!).

It’s a normal and natural part of the birthing process, and your nurses and doctors are used to it. Don’t let this concern hold you back, it’s nothing to be embarrassed about.  

If you are super worried about it, drink plenty of water and foods high in fiber now so you are regular and less likely to have stool in your colon when you are in labor. Exercise is also a good way to encourage your bowels to keep moving regularly, even if it is a gentle daily walk. When you are in labor make sure you take regular bathroom breaks.

6 – Birthing positions – there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process 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. Some providers are unwilling to support alternative birthing positions.  It’s important to ask your provider if he or she willing to help you birth in a position that is most comfortable for you.

For me, I preferred being on my hands and knees or using a birthing bar.

7 – Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth.

Ooh, that’s me! A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. 

I can help you with relaxation and comfort techniques during pregnancy and labor. I also provide emotional support during pregnancy, labor and postpartum. As your doula I will educate you of all evidence-based choices and help advocate for your birth wishes.  

Want to learn more about my services click here.

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 to listen to your body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished.

Many hospitals here do not allow snacks (but sometimes they will allow popsicles) to be eaten during labor, you will want to eat before you go to the hospital.  Labor can be long and hard work you want to have as much energy as possible. 

9 – Out of hospital birthing classes provide more comfort techniques and practice.  Statically, moms who take out of hospital CBC’s have better birth outcomes.

Moms who are educated to know ALL medical and natural options available to them during labor are less likely to need medical intervention. In hospital classes, while generally cheaper, they cater to how the hospital prefers to deliver babies. Out of hospital classes caters to how the mom is most comfortable giving birth. A full spectrum education will give you confidence to birth the way you want to with a plethora of tools for you to use during your labor and birth.

10 – Cesarean section rates are high in the US.

C-sections are a common form of delivery in the US.  Almost 33% of births are by C-section.  C sections can be and can be planned or unplanned. 

There are a couple of reasons for the high C-section rates, one is Low priority of enhancing women’s own abilities to give birth like giving time to wait for a breech baby to turn or predicting that a baby is big without evidence.

Another reason for the higher rates is Side effects of common labor interventions and inductions. Inductions (especially in a first-time mom) are hard on mom and baby when the body is not ready to go into labor. Continuous fetal monitoring, early epidural and high levels of Pitocin have all contributed to the need of a C-section.  You can read more about the whys for high-section rates here

Should you need a C-section your healthcare team 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.  Always ask questions to make sure a C-section is a right choice for you and your baby.

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! 

If you feel that you need some extra support, please check out my doula services.