Get Away From The Norm: 9 Reasons to Break the Rules of Traditional Childbirth | Oklahoma City Birth Photography

Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don’t worry, I’ve got you!

Here are 9 things your provider probably didn’t tell you about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control.

(And hey, if any of these resonate with you, I’ve included specific questions to ask your doctor/midwife at your next appointment!) 

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

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

Question for your provider: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?

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 pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.

Additionally, I highly recommend treatment by a prenatal physical therapist during pregnancy for mobility, positioning and for methods of pain relief during labor. If you’re interested in finding someone to work with, I highly recommend Perfect Peace PT!

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

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.

Question for your provider: Can I bring music to the birthing room? 

Birthing pools 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.

Question for your provider: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?

Birthing positions – there are so 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.

With my second birth, I did a lot of birthing in a squat with a squat bar – it was such a good position for me and my son!

Question for your provider: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?

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

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. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth.

Question for your provider: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?

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.

Question for your provider: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?

The power of the mind – visualization and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.

Visualization and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable.

Question for your provider: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?

Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses 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.

Question for your provider: 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!

Want more information on birth? Check out my post The Things You Really Want To Know About Labor And Delivery But Were Afraid To Ask.

Are you still looking for a birth photographer or videographer in the OKC area? Check out my birth portfolio or reach out!