Top 10 Things I Wish Every Mom Knew About Childbirth

As a prenatal + postpartum chiropractor and birth doula, I have cared for hundreds of women during their pregnancies and motherhood journeys. Not all providers are created equally, so some women unfortunately don’t feel confident in asking them questions or saying no.

So here I am telling you things that you may or may not know about the birthing experience, whether that be at home, in a hospital, scheduled C-section, VBAC, first child or tenth child.

Here we go:

1. Your body has an innate ability to give birth.

For generations further back than we can imagine women have been birthing their children alone, with support, in hospitals, and at home. Trust your female body and know that your body was made to birth.

2. Staying calm and relaxed can facilitate smoother labor.

Who can get anything done when they’re stressed out, much less give birth?! Put away the distractions, focus on the present, and visualize the future moments of holding your baby in your arms.

3. Educate yourself and make informed decisions about your options.

From pain management and interventions to birthing positions there are a million ways to give birth. Talk with your provider, discuss with your partner what it is you want, and do the research to make sure you feel comfortable with your options. Remember: you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to.

4. Having a consistent support person can improve birth outcomes.

Having a doula, someone outside of your partner, to support you during labor and delivery can lowers the need for unnecessary intervention, reduce stress and anxiety, as well as provide a more comfortable labor.

5. There are other options for pain besides medication.

There are other ways to get relief from labor pains outside of an epidural. Techniques like breathing exercises, water immersion, and massage can be effective in managing labor pain.

6. Staying well-nourished and hydrated during labor is crucial for energy.

Pregnant or not we know that food gives us energy, and birth requires energy. Not being “allowed” to eat is old news, sorry. Focus on small meals and snacks that are high in protein to maintain energy.

7. Changing positions can help progress labor and ease discomfort.

Even if you have an epidural, changing positions is necessary. By doing so, you get the pelvis moving to ensure baby is further lowering into the pelvis and birth canal to prepare for delivery.

8. Your environment matters!

Creating a calm, serene birth space can positively affect your birthing experience. Can you imagine giving birth in the middle of Costco with people surrounding you, loud noises, lots of voices and distractions?! No. Even if you’re in the hospital you can turn out the lights, ask the staff to talk softly, play music of your choice, and even diffuse calming essential oils.

9. During the postpartum period, prioritize you.

Just as baby needs attention and support, so does mom. Make sure you focus on your own rest, nutrition, and emotional support. Moms tend to forget about their own health, self-care, and well-being in the early stages of postpartum, but if mom isn’t well baby isn’t well. Take care of yourself and always ask for help.

10. Every birth is unique.

The best thing about birth is it is so specific to what mom and baby need and want. What works for one person may not work for another, so know your options and understand that this is your birth. No one else’s.

For all things birth and more tips to enhance your prenatal + postpartum experience, following along on Instagram @yourfamilychirokc.