How To Have A “Natural Birth” (Even In The Hospital)

When people think of a “natural birth”, we’re usually thinking about the spontaneous onset and continuation of Labor and Delivery without IV medications and/or the Epidural!

I want to start off by saying, Childbirth is wild and unpredictable. You can do everything right and still end up having to adjust a lot about your “Plan A Birth Plan”.

So, my best advice as a Birth Doula, is to strive for the birth of your dreams! But also, accept and surrender to the fact that you can’t control childbirth…

HOWEVER,

There are steps you can take that increase (by a lot) your chances of having a “natural” birth, even if you’re giving birth in a hospital!

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So what are these steps? Let’s start by preventing:

The Cascade of Interventions

The cascade of interventions during labor and delivery refers to a phenomenon where one medical intervention during childbirth can lead to a series of subsequent interventions, often resulting in an increased likelihood of further medical interventions and potential complications.

This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including medical necessity, complications during labor, or provider preferences.

Here is a simplified example of how the cascade of interventions might occur during labor and delivery:

Induction or Augmentation of Labor is the most common start to the cascade, but not the only! Labor may be induced or augmented with medications such as Pitocin (synthetic oxytocin) to stimulate contractions or cervical ripening agents to help the cervix dilate. This may be necessary for various reasons such as post-term pregnancy, medical conditions, or fetal distress.

But even after a spontaneous onset of labor, these interventions can cause some problems:

• Continuous Fetal Monitoring: Continuous electronic fetal monitoring may be initiated to monitor the baby’s heart rate and uterine contractions. This can be triggered by the use of induction or augmentation agents, or if there are concerns about the baby’s well-being.
• Epidural Analgesia: An epidural may be offered for pain relief during labor. While effective at managing pain, epidurals can sometimes lead to prolonged labor or difficulty pushing due to decreased sensation and mobility.
• Restricted Movement: Due to continuous fetal monitoring or epidural anesthesia, the mother’s ability to move freely during labor may be restricted, which can impede the progress of labor.
• Assisted Delivery: If labor progresses slowly or if there are concerns about the baby’s well-being, interventions such as vacuum extraction or forceps delivery may be used to assist in the delivery.
• Cesarean Section: In cases where vaginal delivery is not progressing safely or if there are concerns about the baby’s or mother’s health, a cesarean section may be performed.

Each intervention carries its own set of risks and benefits. The decision to intervene should ideally be based on careful consideration of individual circumstances and preferences.

So, how do we avoid these to have a natural birth??

Step One: Labor At Home

Laboring at home (for as long as possible) is essential for achieving a natural birth. But you should always consider all of the risks and benefits! The risks vary depending on pregnancy conditions. Consult your provider for these risks.

But some of the benefits include:

• Comfort and Familiarity: Many women feel more comfortable and relaxed in their own home environment. Being in familiar surroundings can help reduce anxiety and stress, which can facilitate the progression of labor.
• Privacy and Control: Laboring at home provides privacy and autonomy, allowing women to labor in a space where they feel safe and in control. This can contribute to a more positive emotional experience during childbirth.
• Reduced Risk of Intervention: Research suggests that low-risk women who choose to labor at home may have lower rates of medical interventions, such as epidurals, augmentation of labor, or cesarean sections. This can lead to a more natural and less medically managed birth experience.
• Supportive Environment: Women laboring at home often have the support of their chosen birth attendants, such as midwives or doulas, who can provide personalized care and guidance throughout the labor process. This continuous support can help women cope with labor pain and make informed decisions about their care.
• Flexibility and Mobility: Laboring at home allows women to move freely and adopt positions that are comfortable for them, which can help facilitate labor progress and reduce discomfort. Additionally, being at home may encourage women to use relaxation techniques, hydrotherapy (e.g., showering or bathing), or other comfort measures to manage pain.
• Reduced Risk of Infection: Laboring at home may reduce the risk of exposure to infectious agents present in healthcare settings, although this benefit should be weighed against potential risks associated with complications during childbirth.

Go by the 4-1-1 rule or call your provider if your water has broken, this way you can labor at home and still make it to the hospital in time to have your baby!

Step Two: Have A Birth Plan

A birth plan is a document that outlines your preferences and wishes for labor, childbirth, and immediate postpartum care. It is typically created during pregnancy and is intended to communicate and advocate for your desires to your healthcare providers and birth support team.

Download My Free Birth Plan Template

Start preparing for you Dream Birth by printing this template, fill it out and take it with you!

While birth plans can vary widely in format and content, they often include the following elements:

• Labor Preferences: This section may include preferences regarding the environment for labor (e.g., dim lighting, music), who will be present during labor and birth, and any specific requests related to pain management or comfort measures.
• Birth Preferences: Here, the individual may outline their preferences for the birth itself, such as preferred positions for labor and pushing, preferences for monitoring the baby’s heart rate, and preferences regarding interventions like episiotomy or assisted delivery methods.
• Postpartum Preferences: This section may include preferences for immediate postpartum care, such as preferences for skin-to-skin contact with the baby, delayed cord clamping, breastfeeding preferences, and requests for specific postpartum support or care.
• Emergency Situations: Some birth plans may include preferences or instructions for emergency situations or unexpected complications, such as preferences for cesarean section, resuscitation of the baby, or other medical interventions.
• Cultural or Religious Preferences: Birth plans may also include cultural or religious preferences that the individual wishes to be respected during labor, childbirth, and postpartum care.

It’s important to remember that a birth plan is not a binding contract but rather a tool for communication and advocacy!

Birth preferences may need to be adjusted based on the progress of labor, medical necessity, and other factors, so flexibility is key.

Additionally, it’s essential to discuss the contents of the birth plan with healthcare providers and birth support team members to ensure that everyone is on the same page and understands your wishes and preferences. This will help them support you during your natural birth!

Ultimately, the goal of a birth plan is to empower individuals to advocate for the birth experience they desire while also prioritizing the safety and well-being of both you and your baby!

Step Three: Mental Preparation

Mental preparation for natural birth during pregnancy involves various strategies aimed at helping you develop a positive mindset, manage anxiety and fears, and build confidence in their ability to give birth.

I would argue, this is even more important than physical prep!

• Education and Information: Learning about the physiological process of labor and childbirth can help demystify the experience and alleviate fears. Attending childbirth education classes, reading books, watching documentaries, and talking to healthcare providers can provide valuable information about what to expect during labor and birth.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques can help individuals stay calm and focused during labor. These techniques can also help manage anxiety and discomfort, promote relaxation, and facilitate the release of natural pain-relieving hormones.
• Visualizations and Positive Affirmations: Visualization exercises and positive affirmations can help individuals create mental images of a positive birth experience and reinforce feelings of confidence and empowerment. Visualizing the birth process going smoothly and imagining oneself coping effectively with contractions can help reduce anxiety and build mental resilience.
• Combine all 3 practices with Hypnobirthing!
• Support Network: Building a strong support network of family, friends, and healthcare providers can provide emotional support and encouragement during pregnancy and childbirth. Having trusted individuals to turn to for reassurance, guidance, and assistance can help individuals feel more confident and prepared for childbirth.
• Birth Planning and Decision-Making: Taking an active role in creating a birth plan and making informed decisions about childbirth preferences can help individuals feel more in control of their birth experience. Discussing options with healthcare providers, asking questions, and advocating for preferences can empower individuals to feel more confident and prepared for labor and birth.
• Addressing Fears and Concerns: It’s normal to have fears and concerns about childbirth, but addressing them openly and seeking support can help individuals overcome anxiety and build confidence. Talking to healthcare providers, attending support groups, and connecting with other expectant parents can provide opportunities to share experiences, ask questions, and receive reassurance.
• Self-Care and Wellness: Prioritizing self-care and overall wellness during pregnancy can support mental and emotional well-being leading up to childbirth. Getting enough rest, eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress relief can all contribute to a positive mindset and mental preparedness for childbirth.

Overall, mental preparation for natural birth during involves a holistic approach that addresses emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of the birthing experience.

By actively engaging in strategies to reduce anxiety, build confidence, and cultivate a positive mindset, individuals can approach childbirth with greater resilience, empowerment, and readiness.

Step Four: Physical Prep

Physical preparation for childbirth during pregnancy involves activities and practices aimed at maintaining physical health, strength, and stamina to support the demands of labor and birth.

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular, moderate-intensity exercise during pregnancy can help build endurance, strength, and flexibility. Activities such as walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and low-impact aerobics can help strengthen the muscles needed for labor and improve overall fitness.
• Pelvic Floor Exercises: Pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to support the uterus, bladder, and bowels during pregnancy and childbirth. This can also help during the pushing phase!
• Breathing Techniques: Practicing deep breathing techniques and relaxation exercises can help you manage pain and discomfort. Learning how to breathe effectively can promote relaxation, reduce tension, and enhance oxygen flow to the muscles. This can be beneficial during contractions and pushing.
• Perineal Massage: Regular perineal massage in the weeks leading up to childbirth may help prepare the area for stretching and reduce the likelihood of severe perineal trauma.
• Optimal Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is essential for supporting overall health and well-being during pregnancy and childbirth. Adequate hydration, consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide the necessary energy and nutrients for labor and recovery.
• Prenatal Classes and Education: Attending prenatal classes and childbirth education sessions can provide valuable information and guidance on physical preparation for childbirth. These classes may cover topics such as labor positions, relaxation techniques, pain management options, and practical tips for labor and birth.
• Rest and Relaxation: Prioritizing rest and relaxation during pregnancy is crucial for supporting physical health and well-being. Getting enough sleep, practicing relaxation techniques, and taking breaks when needed can help conserve energy and reduce fatigue, which is important for coping with the physical demands of labor.
• Body Awareness and Self-Care: Paying attention to bodily sensations and practicing self-care techniques such as massage, warm baths, and gentle stretching can help you stay connected to your body and alleviate discomfort during pregnancy. Listening to one’s body and responding to its needs can help promote physical well-being and prepare for childbirth.

You can find incredible physical prep from Jessica Pumple, a Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness Instructor that I’ve followed for years!

By staying active, practicing relaxation techniques, and prioritizing self-care, you can enhance your physical readiness and confidence for the birthing experience!

Step Four: Your Birth Team

Having a strong birth team that includes a trustworthy provider, doula, and partner can significantly impact your birth experience. Especially if your goal is the “natural” route!

Here’s why each member is important:

• Trustworthy Provider: A trustworthy healthcare provider, such as an obstetrician, midwife, or family physician, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of both the birthing person and the baby. They provide medical expertise, guidance, and support throughout pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. A provider who respects the individual’s preferences, listens to their concerns, and involves them in decision-making can help promote a positive and empowering birth experience.

• Doula: A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to individuals and their partners before, during, and after childbirth. Doulas offer non-medical support and advocacy, helping individuals navigate the birthing process, cope with labor pain, and make informed decisions about their care. Research has shown that having a doula present during childbirth can lead to:
• shorter labors
• reduced need for pain medication
• lower rates of medical interventions
• and increased satisfaction with the birth experience.

• Your Partner: Your partner or support person plays a vital role in providing emotional support, encouragement, and reassurance during labor and childbirth. Partners can offer physical comfort measures, such as massage, positioning, and providing hydration and nourishment. Additionally, partners serve as advocates for the birthing person’s preferences and can help facilitate communication with healthcare providers.

By working collaboratively, respecting individual preferences, and offering personalized care and guidance, the birth team can help individuals navigate the challenges of labor and childbirth with confidence, empowerment, and compassion.

I hope this helped you with your preparation for a natural birth! If you have any questions or suggestions for additions to this blog, please leave a comment. I’m always looking to improve as a resource.

Sending Love!

Chelsea

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