Congratulations! You’ve decided against pain medications and interventions… now what?

Bringing new life into the world can be one of the most beautiful and transformative experiences in your life. Natural labor can provide an opportunity for you to connect with your body and experience childbirth in a way that feels empowering and positive while taking care of your body and baby. While natural childbirth can be challenging, there are ways to increase the chance of success.

You need to think of your labor experience like a Mary Poppins suitcase. Stay with me… She always has what she needs for every circumstance and it’s all tucked away nicely in a little bag. For you, this means you need to have techniques in your suitcase to pull out at all times of the labor. You never want to be stuck without options if the pain gets worse! For example, you start with walking and listening to music. When the pain gets too intense for that, we pull out the essential oils. After that we get in the bath. So on and so forth. I believe in you!!! Most importantly, believe in yourself and set yourself up for success!

Here are 6 ways to succeed at natural labor:

1. Essential Oils

Herbs have been used for centuries to heal and aid our bodies. Essential oils are natural oils extracted from plants that have a range of therapeutic benefits. During labor, essential oils like lavender, peppermint, clary sage, and rosemary can be used to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, alleviate pain, and stimulate contractions. They can be used in a diffuser, applied topically, or added to a bath. As always, please consult your doctor before trying any homeopathic remedies.

2. Water

Water birth is a natural labor technique that involves giving birth in a tub or pool of warm water. The buoyancy of the water can help reduce the pressure on your joints and provide a sense of weightlessness, making it easier to move and find comfortable positions during labor. It can also help you feel more relaxed and reduce the need for pain medication. You can also hop in the shower for a bit to reduce pain during active labor!

3. Birth Plan

A birth plan is a document that outlines your preferences for labor and delivery. It can include things like who you want present during birth, pain management techniques, and your preferences for postpartum care. Researching and writing out your birth plan can help you feel more in control and ensure that your wishes are respected by your provider. I love the saying… “If you don’t know your choices, you don’t have any…”

4. Counter-pressure

Counter-pressure is a technique that involves applying pressure to certain areas of the body to relieve pain and discomfort. This can include massage or acupressure. It can also help you feel more comfortable and provide a sense of control during labor.

5. TENS Unit

A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit is a small handheld device that uses electrical impulses to stimulate nerve fibers and alleviate pain. When used during labor, TENS units can help reduce the intensity of contractions and provide a sense of relaxation for you. Consult your provider before using in labor.

6. Hire a Doula

A doula is a trained professional who provides emotional, physical, informational, and advocacy support to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Research has shown that having a doula present during labor can lead to shorter labor, less need for pain medication, and a more positive birth experience overall. A Doula can help you navigate the challenged of labor, provide comfort measures, and advocate for your needs and wishes.

Natural childbirth can be an incredible experience, but it requires preparation and support. By using these things and more, you can increase your chance of having a positive and empowering labor. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider to determine which techniques are safe for you and your baby. I believe you can do this!