Natural Childbirth Tips

Once you've chosen to have a natural childbirth at home, you have already made a statement about yourself and your dedication to your baby: "Birth is beautiful, and I am empowered with strength and grace to bring my baby into the world safely and gently."

Here are a few ideas to help support your dedication and confidence.

Think positively about your changing body.
Learn as much as you can about normal, natural, unmedicated birth.
Read positive natural birth stories but stay away from TV birth stories.
Surround yourself with support that celebrates and trusts natural birth.
Eat and drink in a way that supports your healthy body and nourishes your baby.
Stay active and get out to play as much as is appropriate for you.
Be playful and curious about the sensations you experience.
Practice relaxation, visualizations, and breathing with your partner before the birth.
Make a music play list with both calm, relaxing music, and active dance rhythms.
Sprinkle positive affirmations and happy drawings around the house.
When in labor, practice the art of meeting each surge with relaxed breath.
During labor, use touch. Massage, nipple stimulation and being close to your partner all help labor progress.
Use water therapy: like a shower, bath, or water birth tub.
Use aromatherapy.
Let your body take over and trust your instincts. Don't let your busy mind interfere with your body's ancient wisdom.
Trust that this is the most powerful experience of your life and worth every bit of effort.
Choose your caregiver wisely because he or she will have an enormous impact on your experience.