Want an Unmedicated Birth? Here’s What You Actually Need to Prepare For

Almost everyone has a moment in labour when they think "I can't do this" Not because you’re failing or you’re not strong enough, but it's often a point where the intensity of labour is so consuming that your brain starts looking for an escape. Most often, it's at transition when adrenaline kicks in, and you're almost ready to push! This is where preparation matters

Instead of only preparing for how you want labour to go, prepare for what you want your support team to do when it gets hard...and then practice it before labour starts...

• Position changes

• Comfort techniques

• Breath work

• Affirmations

• Releasing tension

• Staying present in the midst of intensity
  

The goal isn't to promise yourself that you will never want pain medication, it's to make sure that when the hard moments come, you have tools, support and choices to help you navigate the intensity, rather than feeling overwhelmed by it.

Prepare for the “I can't”

Here's what that can look like:

You get to a point in labour where you hit a wall. Your mind starts spiralling, and you feel like the only option is medical pain relief.

Partners, this is where your preparation comes in! You've practiced this.

You have a toolbox of comfort measures and strategies to help her through.

You start by breathing with her and reminding her, “You're doing it. Just this contraction.”

When the contraction ends, you offer her a sip of water and help release some of the tension she's holding by massaging her shoulders.

The next contraction comes.

You help her change positions. Maybe you suggest the shower and let the warm water run over her back....a change of scenery can help her see beyond the intensity of the moment and help her feel 'unstuck'. You stay close, you breathe with her and offer reassurance.

You keep using the tools you've practiced together, and eventually, she finds her rhythm again.

That is what preparation can look like.

Not knowing exactly how your labour will unfold or having to be fearless, but having a plan for the moments when things get hard and a support person/team who knows how to help you through them.

If you're planning an unmedicated birth, start talking with your partner about your “I can't” plan now.

What will help you feel supported when labour gets intense?

Save this post, send it to your partner, and start the conversation.