Natural Childbirth

Many women choose to avoid pain relievers during childbirth. They feel it is healthier for their baby. However, there are techniques you can use to ease the pain and discomfort.

• Proper breathing and relaxation techniques are taught in various birthing classes. The most popular are Lamaze classes.
• A warm shower, if you are still in the stage of labor to stand it, is soothing.
• Soaking in a warm bath is also comforting.
• Invite your husband, a trusted friend, nurse, or doula in the room with you during labor.
• Use a labor ball
• Listen to music
• Have someone give you a massage

Positive Re-enforcement

• Learn what to expect before you go into labor. Be informed, but encourage your girlfriends, and female family members to refrain from sharing their scary labor stories with you.
• Share your fears, if any, with others who have experienced childbirth and can encourage you and tell you what to expect.
• Take childbirth classes. You can get information about classes from your doctor or the hospital.
• Talk to your doctor and his/her nurses about questions you have.
• Choose a trusted person to be with you during labor and delivery.

WaterBirth

Waterbirth is becoming more popular in the United States. During labor the woman sits in a tub of water between 90 to 100 degrees. Some women get out of the water at the moment of birth while others remain in the tab. Some research has found that the occurrence of tearing are less with women who give birth in water. Some say the labor was easier and perhaps faster, but there is no proof of that.

Some women and those in the medical field that a waterbirth is more gentle for the baby. The infant is introduced to the new environment momentarily underwater thus dulling the lights and noise in the room.