It’s no secret that labour can be an intense experience, and I’m sure you’ve heard plenty of birth stories from friends and family. But as your own labour approaches, you may be wondering and worrying about how you’ll fare. There’s no way to predict the future, so there isn’t any point worrying, however, in the meantime, there are some things you can do that will defiantly go a long way to help labour be a smoother experience for you and your baby.
Many pregnant mothers approach their due date with apprehensive feelings, however, no one can predict the future so there isn’t any point worrying. So what can you do to increase your chances of a smooth childbirth? Read on to find out.
Keep Fit During Pregnancy
Although it might not be the first thing you feel like, especially during your third trimester, moderate exercise and keeping fit is a great way to ease the stress of childbirth. 30 minutes of exercises such as yoga or swimming each day helps to boost fitness to help you go the distance when it comes to labour.
Don’t Skip Birth Classes
Birth classes inform pregnant women about what to expect from childbirth and teach important pain management exercises. There are a variety of schools of thought, such as Lamaze, the Bradley Method and HypnoBirthing, which go a long way to help prepare you for the big event. In some cases, natural methods of pain management, such as breathing exercises can even reduce the need for drugs or surgery.
Be Flexible
Many mothers have an idea of how they want their birth to be, but when it comes down to it, every labour is different, so being open-minded can help. If you were hoping to have a drug-free birth, but the pain becomes overwhelming or your baby isn’t moving, you may need to consider other options. Having a flexible birth plan is important and at the end of the day, your main goal is to have a healthy baby in your hands.
Relax
As hard as it might seem, it’s important to find ways to relax and ease pain during labour. You can use warm water to your advantage, having a warm shower or bath can help to ease your muscles. Having a partner present to massage tense areas such as your lower back is another great way to loosen up.
Keep Vertical
Studies have shown that keeping vertical can shorten labour and decrease pain. After all, you’re using gravity to your advantage. During the later stages, you can try squatting, which can help you to open up your pelvic outlet and reduce the need for forceps or vacuum extraction.
Stay Focused
When the contractions start to become intense and it’s time to push, one of the best things you can do is to focus on your body. To help this, remove all distraction and try logging out of Facebook. Leading up to labour, try practising mindfulness meditation, it not only helps to manage stress but it can also help to put you in touch with your body.
If you have any questions about easing the stress of childbirth, or would like to book an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Dr Bevan Brown is one of the most trusted obstetricians in Sydney and will be thrilled to give you complete and compassionate care in every way possible.
