Natural birth is something that a lot of women consider, but many are afraid to try. There are many questions to think about:
- What is natural birth really like?
- Can I handle the pain?
- Is it worth the effort to avoid pain meds?
Childbirth is a different experience for every mom and even varies for a woman from pregnancy to pregnancy. Whether you’ve been through labor several times or it’s your first time, a common sentiment from mothers after delivery is “that’s not what I expected!”
Some women feel like contractions are just strong menstrual cramps, while others feel like someone is grabbing their insides and trying to pull the baby out. Every woman has a different level of pain tolerance, but the main thing that can affect how a laboring woman deals with the pain is fear.
The key to natural birth success is letting go of the fears surrounding it and allowing your body to use the pain productively. If you focus on the pain, it will overtake you and you won’t be able to progress. If you allow your mind to relax, your body will relax as well.
Pregnancy, labor and delivery experiences are so diverse that you have to figure out what you’re comfortable with. Your personal experience is going to be different from anyone else’s and even from any previous deliveries you’ve had.
We recommend making a plan with your doctor, but be open to changing it if necessary.
The doctors and staff at All About Women want you and your baby to be as healthy as possible. We can work with you to find a birth plan that fits your needs as well as walk you through the stages of pregnancy and prenatal care.
