5 Ways to Prepare for a Natural Childbirth

Natural childbirth is a choice many women with low-risk pregnancies are making. If you’re interested in an unmedicated delivery, there are things you can do ahead of time to prepare your mind and body for a natural childbirth experience.

At The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group, we offer personalized prenatal care to support a healthy pregnancy and a safe labor and delivery.

Our experienced OB/GYNs help you design a natural childbirth plan and specialize in low-intervention pregnancy care, so you can have the most comfortable experience possible.

What to expect during natural childbirth

Natural childbirth was the primary method of delivery for women for thousands of years. Even though we now have many modern medical advantages, delivering your baby naturally is still a safe option.

In general, natural childbirth describes a delivery with minimal interference from our medical team and no epidural or other medications. The goal is to follow your own instincts to navigate the processes of labor and delivery.

Our medical team is always close by to monitor your and your baby's health. If medical intervention is needed, we can step in at any time. 

You can also work with one of our compassionate midwives, who provides the emotional support you need throughout the experience.

5 ways to get ready for a low-intervention delivery

Throughout your pregnancy and as you inch closer to your due date, there are steps you can take to get ready for natural childbirth. Here are five tips to get you started:

1. Exercise daily

Being physically fit is a definite advantage for expectant moms who wish to give birth to their baby without minimal medical intervention.

Aim to work out at least 30 minutes daily to build up your strength and improve your flexibility. Exercise can include low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and taking prenatal yoga classes.

2. Plan to labor at home

Women with low-risk pregnancies can typically labor at home safely.  You can use various techniques to stay relaxed and comfortable during contractions, such as breathing techniques, taking a warm shower, and walking around.

Our providers can give you additional insight into ways to manage labor at home and help you determine when it’s time to head to the hospital.

3. Enlist your support people

In addition to our medical team, you should also know who will be there to support you during labor and delivery. Have an open conversation with your loved ones about who is available to help, including in the delivery room or at the birthing center.

Working with our midwives can also provide the support you need throughout pregnancy and in the months after delivery.

4. Consider all options for pain management

In advance of your due date, speak with our team about all non-medicated options for pain management, so you know what’s available. There are several therapies you can try to keep pain well controlled, including meditation, switching the position of your body, and massage.

We can also advise you about what you can do if you change your mind about using medications.

5. Be open to changes in the plan

While our team helps you create your natural childbirth plan in advance, it’s important to keep your expectations in perspective. You can spend months preparing for a vaginal delivery but there’s no way to predict a guaranteed outcome.

We work closely with you to understand your wishes in the event you have a complicated labor that requires a Cesarean section or other unexpected medical intervention.

With offices across New York City and New Jersey, call The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group office near you today to learn more about preparing for natural childbirth. You can also book a consultation online.