We're giving away some of the best tools to have a positive birth experience, so sit back and get ready to pay attention:
1: Taking a prenatal class, or hiring a doula isn't enough. You can't check that box and figure you're golden. You have to DO THE WORK. Consume the contact, build your brain and soul strong with your beliefs and desires around birth. Podcasts, books, and instagram accounts that fill that cup. And surround yourself with friends and family who have had the births you want! You are a direct reflection of the 5 people you spend the most time with. Make them positive, encouraging, and peaceful people!
2; Go the F%&* to sleep. If it is your first birth, do not rush to the hospital. If it an be ignored, ignore it. Sleep through that early labour! Your water broke, no contractions? Go back to sleep. (Tip, a doula can help you do this)
3: Get your partner REALLY on board. I mean download a birth audiobook and get him passionate about what you want as well! He needs to be on the same page as you. Know all the things, and why you want them!
4: Choose the right provider. If you want an unmedicated birth, an OB may not be the right fit for you. They just aren't well versed in support it, and either are the Labour and Delivery nurses. They see WAY more medicalized birth, it's just how it is. If you don't understand the difference between an OB and a midwife then definitely reach out to a local doula and they will happily explain it, we also have a blog about that.
5: Be intuitive. This is your body. This is your baby. You need to be connected deeply to the process, what you want, and how you want to feel. Don't lean on the system to take care of you. Don't expect that what Sally down the street did is what is right for you. Dig deep. You can't undo trauma, but you absolutely can work to prevent or minimize it ahead of time.
