Natural Childbirth

What is Natural Childbirth

Natural childbirth is when labor and delivery progresses naturally with minimal medical assistance or medicines. Natural childbirth may be an option if you have a low risk pregnancy.

With the help of a birthing professional such as a midwife, doula, or other health care provider, you may be able to use relaxation techniques and controlled breathing to manage pain during labor.

Many women choose natural childbirth because it makes them feel more in control and in touch with the experience of giving birth.

Some women also choose natural childbirth because they are concerned that medicines may affect them and their babies.

What types of natural childbirth techniques are available?

There are two types of natural childbirth techniques, which are taught in classes:

• The Lamaze method. In these classes, parents learn that having a baby is normal, healthy, and natural. Mothers are taught to take a neutral position regarding pain medicine and numbing medicines, and to make an informed decision about using these medicines if the time comes.
• The Bradley method, also called husband-coached birth. In these classes, the father or partner learns to be the birth coach. The mother is encouraged to exercise and eat a balanced, nutritious diet. Both parents also learn relaxation and deep breathing exercises and are taught how to prepare for emergency situations.

What are some natural pain and relaxation techniques?

If you are considering a natural childbirth, you should explore your options for managing pain and discomfort during your labor and delivery. Some natural pain and relaxation techniques include:

• Meditation.
• Yoga.
• Hypnosis.
• Acupuncture.
• Massage.
• Changing positions, such as by walking, rocking, showering, or leaning on birth balls.
• Lying in warm water or a whirlpool bath.
• Finding an activity that keeps your mind off the labor pain.
• Listening to soft music.
• Focusing on a particular object (visual imagery).

How can I prepare for a natural birth?

• Talk with your spouse or partner about your goals for having a natural childbirth.
• Decide if you will have your baby in the hospital, at a birthing center, or at home.
• Have your spouse or partner attend the natural childbirth technique classes with you.
• Decide which type of health care provider you would like to assist you with your delivery.
• If you have other children, make plans to have someone take care of them when you go to the hospital or birthing center.
• Know the distance and the time it takes to go to the hospital or birthing center. Practice going there and time it to be sure.
• Have a bag packed with a nightgown, bathrobe, and toiletries. Be ready to take it with you when you go into labor.
• Keep phone numbers of your family and friends handy if you need to call someone when you go into labor.
• Talk with your health care provider about the possibility of a medical emergency and what will happen if that occurs.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of natural childbirth?

Advantages

• You are in control of your labor and delivery experience.
• You may be able to avoid some common medical practices, such as getting medicines or being monitored all the time.
• You and your spouse or partner will work together, which can increase your bond with each other.
• In most delivery centers, your family and friends can be involved in the labor and delivery process.

Disadvantages

• The methods of helping relieve labor pains may not work for you.
• You may feel disappointed if you change your mind during labor and decide not to have a natural childbirth.

What can I expect after delivery?

• You may feel very tired.
• You may feel uncomfortable as your uterus contracts.
• The area around your vagina will feel sore.
• You may feel cold and shaky.

What questions should I ask my health care provider?

• Am I a good candidate for natural childbirth?
• Can you refer me to classes to learn more about natural childbirth?
• How do I create a birth plan that outlines my wishes for natural childbirth?

Seek Additional Information

• American Pregnancy Association: americanpregnancy.org  
• American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: acog.org  
• American College of Nurse-Midwives: www.midwife.org  

Summary

• Natural childbirth may be an option if you have a low risk pregnancy.
• The Bradley or Lamaze Methods are techniques that can assist you in achieving a natural birth experience.
• Talk to your health care provider to determine if you are a good candidate for a natural childbirth.