non medicated births?

Question

So I really prefer to go non medicated just to help with recovery time, being able to walk/shower after birth and to be able to breastfeed successfully. I know epidurals can kind of restrain you from certain activities during and after labor. I don't believe I am scared of contractions but I'm absolutely terrified for the episiotomy, stitching and the baby coming out of my vagina while feeling it all. How was your unmediated birth? Totally worth it or no?

Answer

Not trying to persuade you towards an epidural, totally your call, if you want unmediated, go for it! However, I've had two epidurals and had no problem showering a few hours after birth (I can't imagine doing it any earlier since there is bonding/skin to skin time, cleaning up, breastfeeding, moving to your recovery room, etc). I also breastfed my babies within 30 minutes of their birth and it was great. Epidurals wear off pretty quickly so I wouldn't say that most of your fears regarding them are actually all that valid.

Answer

Do not get an episiotomy. It heals easier and better when it tears naturally. There are lots of studies done on this. You can refuse an episiotomy. They were commonly done in the past for a preventative measure but now a lot of doctors will only do them if they are medically necessary, ie baby is stuck in birth canal. Why don't you consider getting a doula or taking some classes aimed at getting you through labour and birth drug free? That way you may feel more prepared. Look into hypno birthing, it's a technique that teaches you to breathe through the contractions and "ride the wave" rather than tensing and anticipating each one.

Answer

Have to disagree with the comments about episiotomy. I had one and healed perfectly very quickly from it. Never had any complications from it and felt very little pain. Several other people I know have had tears and had issues recovering from them. 
Of course no one wants it but I would rather be cut and sewn up by a medical professional then the body to rip itself apart.

I'm sure you can refuse an episiotomy if you wanted. 
My baby's head wasn't going to fit through and there's only so long they can let baby stay in the birth canal before it becomes dangerous. Sometimes an episiotomy is the safest option.

Hope everything goes well for your birth.

❤️

Answer

Non medicated was great for me. Induced with the first 2.. and the last 3 came on their own.

Answer

It's actually better for your body to tear.  Episiotomy is pushed by doctors because they are impatient and would rather stitch a straight line,  but all the studies show that your healing time and the quality of your heal are worlds better if you tear naturally.  Doctors have a tendency to hurry everything along,  but longer labor actually reduces your risk of tearing because the baby slowly stretches you out.  You just need to be your own advocate and if you will have someone with you,  they need to be aware of your preferences and also be your advocate.  You can tell your doctor absolutely no episiotomy.  They might try to do one anyway,  that's where your support person comes in,  and asking lots of questions about what is going on.  I suggest taking a birthing class (not at the hospital).  My bf and I took one from an organization called beautiful birthing choices and I am SO glad that we did.  Knowing all the evidence based information and all of your choices is empowering and takes so much anxiety and fear out of the process.

Answer

Well I had chosen to have an epidural but unfortunately it didn't freeze me waist down! So without a choice I had to have a semi natural birth. I won't lie to you it was very painful especially when the baby's head is halfway out, that's the worst part. They didn't cut me but I had a second degree tear, the stitching wasn't fun either but my baby was heathy and they put the baby on you to distract you from what's going on. If I had another baby I would get the epidural again hoping this time would work. Feeling everything wasn't fun lol

Answer

Episiotomy is extremely rarely a necessary procedure- the only medical reason to perform one is if the doctor can see that you are going to tear upwards towards your clitoris (extremely rare occurance). If your doctor has said they will perform one, you should tell him/her ahead of time that you refuse that procedure. Episiotomy actually makes healing from a tear worse than if you tore naturally. It is always much better to let it happen on its own. And you can do a lot to prevent tearing! Not having an epidural is a big help in the tearing department. When you can feel exactly what is going on while pushing, you can adjust your pushes so that you don't push harder or faster than your body is ready for, basically slowly stretching the vaginal opening. Also eating lots of good fats before and during pregnancy, like coconut oil, olive oil, salmon, avocado, etc. And perineal massage with a good oil!

Answer

It is definitely possible to do it without the epidural. And not everyone will need the cut or tear much. Definitely do your kegels in preparation and listen to the midwife and docs when it comes to pushing. I didn't really find it strange or painful when the baby was coming out- you are so focused on getting through the contractions! And that final push when it then comes out is just a moment of great relief! But don't feel bad if at any stage you feel you need to get the epidural.

Answer

Totally worth it. I've had 3 and I'd never do it any other way 😊 2 of mine were water births and they are amazing!

non medicated births?

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