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5 Ways to have a natural birth!
10-Dec-2010 1. Get educated.
Birth information and education used to be given and handed down from
our mothers and the elders of the village, if you like. Today in our
society we rely on classes to educate women and their partners through
the birth and early parenting process. Most hospitals offer classes and
groups but they can be over crowed and biased. If there is an
independent organisation or childbirth educator, seek them out.
2. Prepare your body and mind.
Labour and birth can be a marathon and it is good to do regular gentle
exercise, eat well, and drink plenty of water during pregnancy. Make
time to visualise a positive birth experience, make a regular time to
relax and just be, every day. Focus on nothing else but your breathing.
You can recall this skill and use it in your labour
3. Hire a Doula.
A doula is a professional support person who cares for the birthing
woman and her partner before, during and after the birth of their baby.
They offer information, guidance and emotional support. Research proves
that having a doula increases birth satisfaction and lowers
intervention rates.
4. Make a birth plan or wish list.
It is a great idea to clarify your birth vision for yourself, your
partner, support people and care providers. Gather as much information
as you can in order to make informed decisions. Keep your birth plan to
one page; be concise and clear in what it is you want. This is your
birth experience, take charge!
5. Engage the services of a supportive caregiver.
I am always perplexed by the amount of women who do no research their
obstetrician, midwife, and or hospital. This is really important to do
at the beginning of your pregnancy. You may accidentally engage the
services of a care provider who does not match your birth philosophy.
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