What's the best way to have a natural birth in a hospital?

Question

I just watched The Business of Being Born. Even before watching it, I knew I didn't want any epidural or any pitocin or anything like that. I just want a natural birth. I'm having my baby in a hospital, and I'm 36 weeks pregnant. Should I refuse pitocin and things like that? What do I do to have an intervention free birth? PLEASE HELP💙

Answer

Write a birth plan, indicate your intentions. You may want to do your research as well on the hospital where you'll be delivering - some are supportive of mom-directed birth experiences, are great about skin-to-skin/breastfeeding, and have lower c section rates. Others not so much.

If you are in labor and the nurses or doctors recommend an intervention, remember that you have the right to ask for a second opinion - or to ask why they are recommending, if there alternatives, if it is ok to wait, etc. For example, if the "heart rate drops" sometimes you can shift position and that can solve the issue. If you're determined to have a natural birth and your labor is complications free, there should be no problem at all going au naturale - even in a hospital :).

That said, not all Dr's and nurses are trying to push drugs or a c section to make their tee time or earn extra cash. Sometimes interventions are necessary for your safety and the safety of the baby. Go in with your intentions, make them known, but ultimately realize that you may need to be open to help in the rare case something goes awry. And if you do decide you need pain relief (labor affects everyone differently) or if an emergency c section is required, try not to feel guilty - it isn't a contest and a healthy baby and mama is all that truly matters at the end of the day.

All that said, I'm hoping to go natural as well! I did Hypnobirthing to prepare and have a birthing ball, essential oils and music to help. My hospital is vocal about being flexible to whatever moms want and the c section rate there is 18% (lowest in my region, national average is 34%).

We got this!

Answer

At 36 weeks there just might not be enough time for u to learn everything you could. If I were you, I would hire a doula ASAP to help with your birth plan and be your advocate during the birth!

Answer

Stay strong! Don't let anyone bully you into something you don't want. It's your body, your baby and your birth. Not theirs. Don't be afraid to tell them what you want and don't want. Im trying for no epidural so I'm going to request that they don't come in asking me where my pain level is all the time etc. I don't want to think about it. I just want to do my thing unless my baby is in jeopardy.

Answer

With my first i made it very clear to all nurses and doctors i didnt want meds even if i begged  for them and they agreed . I went in on a tuesday around 11am and delivered a healthy baby boy Wednesday at 1:15am.  I am very happy  with my decision and plan to do the same this time around

Answer

Make sure your birth team is on the same page when it comes to your wishes so they can help support you! 
Don't show up to the hospital until the last minute, the less time you're there, the less likely you are to be forced into intervention. 
YOU CAN ALWAYS REFUSE ANY PROCEDURE! 
You got this mama :)

I also highly recommend a doula :)

What's the best way to have a natural birth in a hospital?

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