Ten Ways to Achieve a Gentle Birthing

I’ve working with hundreds of birthing mamas and I’ve noticed some patterns! These women are able to achieve a gentle birthing; calmer, healthier, and safer for themselves and their babies.  Here are the common actions these women take that are key to making this happen.

1. They searched until they found a birth attendant who would honor their request for a normal, un-intervened birthing and they were willing to change providers if they were not comfortable with what they were hearing from the provider.
2. They discussed their preferences for labor care early and often with their care provider.
3. They thoroughly embraced the belief that birth is normal, natural, and healthy, and they learned to trust their birthing bodies.
4. They immediately dismissed thoughts or conversations that could interfere with their birthing dreams and chose to remain upbeat, rather than uptight.
5. They recognized that good nutrition is essential and carefully followed the nutrition guidelines, avoiding late third-term surprises.
6. They did not depend on finding time; they made time, to condition their minds and their bodies to achieve the kind of deep relaxation they would practice during birthing.
7. They were consciously aware that their posture affected their babies’ birth positioning, and they avoided bucket seats and other compromising positions.
8. They recognized that during this period it is more important to be a good parent than a good patient.
9. They empowered themselves with the knowledge that birthing belongs to them, and they reclaimed and maintained ownership of their births.
10. They firmly, but politely expressed what they needed to ensure that their babies came into the world gently and that their birthing experience was one of joy and empowerment.