Natural, drug free labor prep?

Question

FTM’s who are hoping for natural, drug-free labor, what are you doing to prepare? Watching videos, taking classes, etc? Moms who have delivered before, what do you suggest to prepare? What method(s) do you recommend?
I am hoping to deliver without pain medication but am not sure where to start to prepare myself. We are enrolled in a labor class but I know that won’t be enough. Advice, please!!

Answer

Don’t get Induced and don’t use pitocin would be my 2 biggest pieces of advise

Answer

I had a natural birth but I didn’t put pressure on myself so I went in with an open mind and had steps in which I would take if I couldn’t cope which I think really helped keep me calm as I knew If it got too much I could try something else. But I didn’t need to in the end as I was calm and also was lucky and had a easy straight forward birth. I think the best thing is to do some research on the stages of labour, don’t over do it though as at the end of the day everyone’s labour is different. And DONT put pressure on yourself. You will do amazing with or without drugs x

Answer

Have an open mind. 
Read Ina Gartens guide to childbirth. 
Don't be afraid of the pain, of course it will hurt. But it won't (can't) be forever. 
Have a supportive partner. 
Let the nurses know your (fluid) plan. 
Be strong 💪 it is so empowering!

Answer

This is my 2nd. My first was completely natural. First, have realistic expectations. It will hurt but it does STOP between contractions so it's not just sustained pain. Pushing hurts, but it will STOP as soon as that kiddo comes out. Afterwards, it will HURT because your body just went through some trauma. It's all normal and it'll be ok with rest (for me it took a full six weeks to stop bleeding and with learning to breastfeed I was an achy gross tired mess).
Second,  the best piece of advice I got was LET IT HAPPEN. This is an inevitable and natural process. Many people tense up or try to rush it because it's a normal reaction to pain. But relax, let your body do it and breathe breathe breathe through it.

Answer

I’ve heard watching hypnobirth videos are a great mind-prep tool. I haven’t checked them out yet though

Answer

Ina Mays Guide to Childbirth. Read multiple times 😊

Answer

I read “Secrets of Confident Childbirth” that was great and I plan on rereading it when I go on mat leave at 35 weeks (24 weeks now). My sister in law gifted it to me, who has had two natural childbirths. 
VERY good book, highly recommend. Very positive thinking, your body grew your baby so your body knows how to birth your baby! Trust your body and the process... Covers all birthing pain options but speaks in depth about natural pain relief - massage, breathing, visualization etc.

Answer

I followed the hypnobirthing method with my first. It was a successful drug free birth.
There’s also the Bradley method 
Either way it’s really about mind over matter

Answer

Have your SO of whoever will be in the room with you prepare as well. My husband did list of research and watched videos, read books blah blah blah. He was my support system and I would t have made it through labor without him. I had a medicated birth because I had to be induced but it helps to have some one as prepared as you are :)

Answer

I read a whole bunch of books and took a birthing class. 30 some hours into labor, I opted for the epidural. Honestly, no matter what you read or do, you won't know what is going to happen until you are in the moment. Go into labor with a plan but be open-minded. I hope you get the natural delivery you want! :)

Natural, drug free labor prep?

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