The birth of a child is one of the most rewarding experiences anyone will ever face. Childbirth has the potential to be more than just a procedure that brings a child from womb to arms. With some planning and forethought, the delivery of your baby can be an empowering, peaceful experience that has benefits for both mother and baby.
Dealing with Labor Sensations
Even if you desire pain medication during your labor, it is still wise to learn some techniques to deal with the sensations of labor. The pain of labor is not one of damage, disease or illness, but it is still an intense, working pain in which muscles come to life for a brief instant to bring a baby down and into the world. Preparing for these sensations will allow you to be ready for them, to relax through them, and to allow you to delay medication longer, thus shortening your labor.
Practice positions for labor, such as squatting, getting on your hands and knees, using your partner for support (with your arms draped around him, as in a slow dance) and sitting on a birth ball. There are also instances when pain medication isn't effective or cannot be given, so having skills and ideas to deal with birth sensations can help you to maintain control during your birth.
Learn To Relax
Relaxation during labor is key to having a peaceful, enjoyable birth experience. According to midwife Ina May Gaskin, high levels of adrenaline can hinder the birth canal's ability to stretch and accommodate a baby. Staying relaxed in a comfortable, intimate atmosphere will lower adrenaline levels and facilitate the opening of the cervix and vagina and allow for an easier birth. Methods such as deep breathing, meditation, hypnosis, prayer, laughter and gentle coaching can help you relax, stay calm and breathe through your contractions and birth sensations.
Trust Your Body
Finally, the most important tip for peaceful, enjoyable childbirth is to trust your body. A woman's body is perfectly made for giving birth, and yours is no exception. Recognition in the power that your body has to create and birth a baby can help you to maintain a calm, controlled atmosphere for labor where you can make sound decisions, lessen the pain and enjoy the moment.
References
- Outcomes of planned home births with certified professional midwives: large prospective study in North America; "British Medical journal"; June 2005
- "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth"; Ina May Gaskin; March 2003
- "Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way"; Susan McCutcheon; 1996
- "The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth"; Sheila Kitzinger; November 1997
