I am a FTM, If I want to give birth without an epidural, what do I need to know/do?

Question

I am considering trying birth without an epidural. What should I do to prepare? What kind of classes or books, etc.? Thank you!!

Answer

Classes and books and YouTube videos. I did it with my first without any special training, but it was extremely hard. Anything by midwife Ina May Gaskin is empowering (books and YouTube), there are also classes like Bradley method and Hypnobirthing.

I think the more educated you are, the easier it will be. You also need to have SUPPORTIVE people around you, no one who is going to say "psh you can't do it" or keep suggesting you get the epidural.

Also check out where you're giving birth (especially if you're in the U.S. and going to a hospital) to see what they can do to accommodate. For example birthing on your back is stupid and counterproductive, it's done for doctors convenience. Can you move around?  Do you have to have an IV and belly monitors?

Let me know if I can help more!  Our bodies can do this, society has made birth into this terrifying ordeal but really it is beautiful and totally doable. I can't wait to give birth to my little girl!

Answer

You will want to take some kind of childbirth education class so you know what your experiencing is normal.  You can have any fear or tension. Practice relaxation skills now. Also your coach will have his/her work cut out for them so make sure it's someone who is prepared. They need to stay relaxed and focused on you (taking you through contractions, giving you water/juice in between contractions, cheering you on). I teach childbirth Ed. Theres a lot more so I really suggest classes.

Answer

I also think you should consider that things don't always go according to plan. I wanted a 100% natural birth and ended up.with an emergency c section Bc my little girl was on major distress after I labored all day. You should not be hard on yourself I'd things don't go exactly as you want them, too. As long as your little one gets here safely and is healthy, that is all that matters!!

Answer

It is so hard to be prepared when it's your first just because you don't know what to expect. I tried twice and made it further the second time by staying in labor at home as long as possible but needed the epidural once I got to the hospital. The pain is just too much and my labor stops progressing.

I am a FTM, If I want to give birth without an epidural, what do I need to know/do?

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