Knowledge: Natural Birth

What is a natural birth?

The term ‘natural birth’ can encompass many different styles of birthing. It is not just ‘one’ thing. When most people think about a natural birth, they think of the vaginal labor process without an epidural. But there is more to natural birth than the mechanics. Many natural births don’t use any kind of pain medication, whereas others may just use the bare minimum such as over the counter painkillers and intervention when necessary. The average number of women who get epidurals at some point in their labor is about 71%. Therefore, it’s considered quite normal to have this method of pain relief. In some cases, choosing natural birth means refraining from other medical interventions, like fetal monitoring and episiotomies. However, many women choose to be quite fluid within the natural birthing philosophy and encourage some medicalization when necessary. 

Natural birth plans may also dictate or suggest the type of medical professional you choose (those who support and are experienced in natural births). Mothers are in charge of their birth, and should customize the experience to suit their preferences. This might mean bringing in a doula or choosing to have a more medicalized experience. 

Midwives offer personalized care in your setting of choice (home or otherwise) and some can provide many of the same medical services a doctor or nurse practitioner might. Midwives offer a unique combination of medical services and empathetic, nurturing support. From fostering a supportive, healthy environment to planning for motherhood, midwives can create a well-rounded maternity experience. As long as you are at low risk for childbirth complications, a midwife can walk with you through your journey of maternity.

A midwife is there to support all aspects of your pregnancy, delivery and the postpartum period. They also contribute to your overall well-being and safety. In a recent study completed by Oregon State University, it was found that states who support midwifery also tend to have lower rates of “premature births, cesarean deliveries and newborn deaths.”

Many people have the misconception that midwives take a relatively inactive role in childbirth, especially when compared to a doctor; however, quite the opposite is true. Midwives often have medical training and certifications. With a resurgence of home births, midwives are in high demand and with all the choices available, it’s important to understand what each type of midwife can offer. There are generally four different classifications of midwives (for a handy chart, click here).

Why would you choose a natural birth?

It is commonly believed that, as birth is a natural process, your body knows what to do without medical interventions. Pain medications are highly effective these days, but they don’t come without risks. An epidural is a very strong medication, and for a baby who is only about 5% of the mother’s mass, it can be a lot to handle. Some babies take a while to gain full awareness after being exposed to an epidural. Consequently, some women feel it can hinder the bond initially created between the mother and baby. The reasoning behind this is that epidurals interfere with natural hormones (oxytocin) in the body. This can prolong the labor process and make it more difficult for the baby to endure. 

While epidurals are normally safe, they can pose some health risks, especially for high risk pregnancies. Additionally, most women cannot walk around after receiving an epidural because it limits mobility and requires an IV line to be attached to a machine. That may present difficulties in changing positions for easier delivery and labor.

What are alternative pain management options?

If you’re reluctant to have an epidural, there are lots of natural options that can help women cope with labor and delivery. Massage, changing position, water immersion during pre-laborbirthing classes, and even hypnobirthing. These are all viable options that have been proven to work. Depending on your preferences, the midwife, doula, or doctor can work with you to determine the best option and how to implement each. This is one of the many reasons why having a birth plan is extremely important. 

Birth partners can play an important role in helping to reduce a mother’s discomfort. Fathers, for example, can take an active role in helping Mom change positions, or generally help make her feel more at ease. Because natural birthing in a highly powerful, intimate and challenging experience, the role of birthing partners and the support and encouragement they bring should not be underestimated.

What now?

How you choose to birth your baby is entirely up to you. If you are a first-time-Mom, you might feel unsure about what natural birthing will be like. Many women have found that once labor starts, they have the instinct to birth without intervention. The most important thing is that you are comfortable with your birth plan. Natural birth can be a beautiful and safe option for many women. It can allow both the mother and child to be alert, present, and ready to experience the world together. To find out more information about natural births, click here. 

Birth partners can play an important role in helping to reduce a mother’s discomfort. Fathers, for example, can take an active role in helping Mom change positions, or generally help make her feel more at ease. Because natural birthing in a highly powerful, intimate and challenging experience, the role of birthing partners and the support and encouragement they bring should not be underestimated.