This blog post is all about birth preparation and a guide that answers the question what can you do to prepare for labor and birth? Tackling some or all of the items here will help you feel more at ease. If you are planning already for the birth of your baby, that means you are getting close to the big day. How exciting!
Write a Birth Plan
The very first step is to decide what you want. I know this sounds very vague, but bear with me.
There has to be a why behind your decision. First, think about what birthing means to you. Then decide on the place you feel the most comfortable or supported. Some people like the hospital setting because they feel safe knowing that medical staff is nearby. Others feel that their home is more peaceful. It is important to decide what kind of birth experience you would like so that it is easier to pick your birth team.
I learned that, as women, we sometimes give our power away; one of them is childbirth. God designed a woman’s body to bring forth new life. I am awestruck how a woman’s body prepares to grow a tiny human for nine months and, when the time is right, pushes them out into the world. This natural process has been happening for decades. Women need to know they are NOT ALONE–hundreds of thousands of women give birth to their precious babies with minimal medical assistance, and you can too.
Please remember not to make your decision based on fear, as this negative energy will put you out of alignment with your desires.
In addition, making your wishes known before you’re in labor will make you feel empowered.
PRO TIP: Picture your ideal “Labor Day” What does the room look like, smell like, or sound like? Who is there?
Attend Birthing Classes
As the adage goes: “knowledge is power,” and it surely is right. The information you gather before labor will be handy for the big day. That is why birthing classes are a good resource for first-time moms and those who need a refresher.
I’ve heard women say that birth can be different for each, and I can testify to the truth. Labor and birth are unpredictable; however, my second experience was most aligned with my wishes because of the work put towards birth preparation. It makes a huge difference going into labor feeling empowered rather than fearful.
I will not sugarcoat things because I did experience doubts and fears in my pregnancy as many soon-to-be mothers, but I made sure to address any concerns with my midwife. I also practiced fear release, which is an important step and should be included in any good birth preparation class.
PRO TIP: You may want to search for hypnobirthing classes
Seek Rest, Relaxation and Positivity
Pregnancy hormones are why many women experience highs and lows, making them extremely vulnerable. My midwife advised me to practice relaxation as much as possible and told me to avoid places and people that might trigger stress or anxiety. I didn’t know that seeking positivity was a ‘thing’ until she told me. BUT, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT, especially in the third trimester when the body is preparing for labor. Avoid negative conversations and save the horror birth stories for another day. You don’t need to hear anything negative during this time because it will not help your nerves.
I would add a chiropractor or massage therapist under this category, both of whom specialize in pregnancy, at least once a month or as needed for pain and relaxation.
PRO TIP: Practice meditation at least twice daily. A relaxed body and stress-free environment help speed up the labor process.
Move Around
Wait a minute… didn’t you say to seek rest? Trust me on this point because exercise is equally as important– it should be a lifestyle. Think about it this way, if labor feels like running a marathon, wouldn’t you want to prepare for it? It’s a good idea to move around and do gentle exercises while pregnant. In my Third Trimester Pregnancy Tips, I go over this topic in more detail. Also, be sure to check out the benefits of the Mile Circuit; I promise there’s no running involved! 😉
PRO TIP: Remember to stay hydrated with Smart Water or Coconut Water
What to Pack for the Hospital
If you are considering a hospital birth, you may benefit from taking a tour online or in person so you can become familiar with the hospital or birthing center. Ask your doctor or midwife to help you coordinate this.
I’m pretty sure you’ve seen plenty of Hospital Bag videos on YouTube and what to pack lists online. They all pretty much list the same things, but here is a brief recap for birth preparation:
- Toiletries and body care
- Essential oils (like peppermint for nausea or lavender for relaxation)
- Going home outfit for mom and baby
- Nursing bra, soft gown and cozy socks
- Camera, batteries, long phone charger, headphones
- Receiving blanket and burp cloth
- Pillow and/or light blanket
- Snacks (think trail mix, honey six, baby carrots, fresh berries)
- Music playlist, birth affirmations
- Car Seat by 36 weeks
Home Birth Supplies
The list for home birth will vary slightly depending on your preferences. For example, if you want a water birth, you will need to buy or rent an inflatable tub, hose, pumps, and accessories. I was blessed with a great midwife who provided all the birthing pool supplies and helped with the cleanup.
For the most part, your doctor or midwife will give you a list of supplies to gather and have ready in your birthing room by 36 weeks. Some of the things I made sure to have ready were:
- 6-8 large bath towels and washcloths
- Painters plastic to drape over furniture
- Ziploc Bags and Garbage Bags
- Extra Large Protective Underpads
- Depends Underwear and Overnight Maxi Pads
- Newborn Diapers and first outfit
- Ambient LED Pillar Candles and Aromatherapy
- Swim Top/Sports Bra
- Birthing/Exercise Ball
- Teenie Nee Doh ball for Anxiety/Stress
- Postpartum Belly Wrap/Binder
- Earth Mama Nipple Cream
- Juice for hydration and Snacks for energy
PRO TIP: You may wish to seek out more information about the use of water for labor and/or birth which will help you be more prepared for the experience by reading The Cochrane Library reviews.
I truly hope you found something of value in this post to make your birth preparation easier.
P.S. May you get the positive birth experience you long for.
♥ Love & Blessings
Other posts you will like: A Natural Birth Experience
