Motherhood is a very special time in a woman's life. It is a time like no other which can truly change and shape a person. More women are starting to choose natural childbirth to bring their babies into the world. The reason for this is because natural childbirth is better for both mother and baby.
Women who experience natural childbirth report that they have a more fulfilling, and rewarding experience. Natural birth is also better for the baby because the baby is born without drugs. This results in a baby that is much more alert and active.
These babies tend to breast feed sooner and with more success. They also tend to make eye contact much sooner with their parents. In our society it can be tempting to choose a medicated birth because it may look easier, but a medicated birth comes with many risks that could lead to complications, including a caesarian section. Many women are also opting to birth at home because they have a higher rate of success with achieving the goal of a natural birth. This is because our home is our sanctuary where we feel comfortable and spend most of our time. Women who birth at home are more relaxed and have the freedom to birth how they choose.
In most hospitals a woman is restricted from birthing a certain way due to hospital policies. She is required to lay down in a hospital bed with bright lights and people prodding and pocking at her. Women tend to progress much slower in a hospital and more complications tend to arise due to invasive procedures. The birth process is rushed because women are “on the clock”, once they get there. This is not the case for every hospital though, it all depends on the area you live in, so be sure to do your home work and find a good hospital if you choose to birth your baby in this setting.
A hospital birth is the only option for some, but there are things that can be done to make a hospital birth more rewarding as well. The lights can be dimmed in most cases and some hospitals will allow you to change positions. Some hospitals are now equipped with relaxing birth tubs and suites where you can have a more fulfilling experience. There may also be a birth center in your area. Every woman should have the right to choose whether to have a natural birth or a medicated one. The decision to commit to a natural childbirth is a very personal one. If your goal is have a natural childbirth there are a few things that you can do to prepare.
1). Educate your self by reading everything you can about natural childbirth. Read.. Read.. Read., and then read some… Take birthing classes and create a birth plan.
2). Hire a doctor or midwife that is supportive about natural childbirth. It can also be quite helpful to hire a doula as well. A doula can help you by being your advocate in the hospital and also help you to control your pain during childbirth with massage and other methods.
3). Prepare in advance by getting as healthy as possible. Eat healthy foods and try to get in good shape before getting pregnant. Take extra vitamins, drink pure water and treat your body with care. Eat organic fruits and vegetables on a daily basis and find time to relax. Drink only pure water.
Wonderful Books About Natural Childbirth
Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way by Susan McCutcheon
Easing Labor Pain: The Complete Guide to a More Comfortable and Rewarding Birth by Adrienne B Liberman
Gentle Birth Choices: A Guide to Making Informed Decisions About Birthing Centers, Birth Attendants, and Water Birth, Home Birth, Hospital Birth by Barbara Harper
I hope you enjoyed this post. Please comment. I love hearing from you! :)
Sarahberra
you are a great writer. Keep it up and you will find that great success.
Very interesting topic indeed
Posted by: David | 08/02/2009 at 09:55 AM