1. Get a solid prenatal education
Seek out classes that include how labor and birth work and natural labor pain management
techniques, such as breathing, self-hypnosis, relaxation and other
coping mechanisms. Your hospital probably offers an evening or weekend
course, but that might not be enough information, especially if they
have a high epidural or C-section rate. Instead, research independent
educators. Try a few different classes or styles until you find one that feels like a good fit.
2. Pick a health care provider who’s into natural birth
Some are, some aren’t and your chances for achieving your goal are increased if the people taking care of you are on the same page. You might also want to hire a doula and, if you’re delivering in a hospital, ask for a labor nurse who’s into natural births, too.
3. Don’t gain too much weight
Labor tends to go more smoothly
for women who aren’t overweight. They have fewer complications and
require fewer medical interventions.
4. Go for a low-intervention pregnancy
Women who “go low” during
pregnancy set a precedent for going low-intervention during labor, too.
If you don’t have any particular health problems, opt for fewer rather
than more tests, treatments and interventions during your pregnancy.
Obviously, some tests are important for every mother, but many are
entirely optional.
Whenever tests or procedures
are recommended, ask why you need it, if it will change or improve your
health or if you’d be just fine without it. If your doctor or midwife
provides compelling reasons why you need certain interventions, then get
them. They’re there for good reason, but not every patient needs
everything.
5. Spend early labor at home
You can move around, get in the tub, eat and drink and go for walks. When your contractions are consistently less than five minutes apart and
getting stronger for at least a couple hours no matter what you do,
then you can check in with your provider. If you go to the hospital and
you’re not very far dilated, go home.
6. Use water
A shower, bathtub, birthing
pool and hot compresses are Mother Nature’s tools for easing pain and
helping you relax. Spend as much time as possible in water.
7. Use your prenatal education
Breathe, meditate, relax, move, change positions, get a massage, listen to music, whatever it takes.
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