13 Benefits of Natural Childbirth
- Freedom during labor. Having an epidural, IVs or continuous electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) usually means you will be confined to bed, unable to walk or change positions when it ...
- Avoid the cascade of interventions. Each unnecessary intervention has the potential to lead to more interventions, including c-section. ...
- Avoid Cesarean. ...
- Faster recovery after birth.
- Less vaginal tearing, since you'll push instinctively during delivery.
- Shorter pushing time.
- Ability to change birthing positions.
- Decreased risk of needing risky interventions.
- Some women feel a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.
Why natural birth is so beneficial for baby?
Researchers theorize that this finding could be because:
- The stress of birth may alter the activity of genes in the baby.
- Differences in gut bacteria could affect later health.
- Not being exposed to infections early in life (as c-section babies often are) may reduce a child’s immune response against it.
How to have a successful natural birth?
- Perineal massage during pushing stage (two fingers inside the vagina with a gentle sweeping motion to stretch the perineum). ...
- Warm compresses (warm, wet cloths applied to the region during the pushing stage). ...
- Side-lying delivery position (lithotomy position increases tear risk). ...
What are the disadvantages of natural birth?
Disadvantages: It can be difficult to estimate or know precisely when a woman is fertile, allowing increased chances for unplanned conception. Natural methods are not as effective as some forms of contraception. Ovulation test kits are used by some couples using natural methods of contraception, and the cost of these kits is another potential ...
What are the risks of natural birth?
Natural childbirth after a c-section carries several risks. The most serious of these is the uterus rupturing. This occurs in only 1% of cases, but it’s very dangerous, as it threatens the survival of both mother and baby.
Why is natural childbirth important?
Women who go through childbirth without the assistance of medication, experience feelings of empowerment and confidence. The ability to give birth naturally and conquer the harsh demands of labor often causes women to feel stronger and less fearful about facing other challenges in life.
Why do women feel better after unmedicated birth?
One reason for this is the impact of natural hormones.
How many women give birth via csection?
In the US, over 80% of women utilize epidural pain relief during labor, and over 30% give birth via c-section.
Why do women need epidurals?
Many women opt for epidural pain relief because they struggle to cope with contractions. Understandably as labor can be quite intense. However, some women aren’t aware that while it takes support and preparation to cope with unmedicated contractions, there are benefits to working through them without an epidural.
Why is it important to stay in bed?
While rest is vital, being stuck in bed can cause aches, pains and increase the risk of blood clots. Increased Connection with the Experience. When no drugs are used during labor, mothers are more alert and aware of the experience, providing them with an increased connection with their baby.
Can you have a baby without medication?
Shortly after birth, many women who labor without medication will experience a rush of euphoria. It’s believed these hormones aid in recovery. Women who give birth without medication also have no concerns for epidural side effects such as back pain, injection site reactions, itching from medication, etc.
When can babies start breastfeeding?
While babies can still establish breastfeeding at any point in the early days and weeks , immediately after birth women’s bodies are most receptive to hormones such as prolactin.
Why is natural birth important?
Being able to birth naturally, and successfully make it through the extreme demands of labor, often makes a woman feel stronger and less fearful about handling other challenges in life.
Why do women have natural births?
Let’s look at some of the reasons many women choose to have a natural childbirth. 1. Labor is Often Shorter. Epidurals and other pain relieving medications often lead to a slower delivery.
How does an epidural affect the fetus?
Epidurals in birthing women also increase the chance of fever which increases the likelihood antibiotics will be prescribed. 5. Faster Recovery Time.
Why are babies born with pain medication?
Babies born through natural childbirth are more alert and show more interest in breastfeeding once delivered. Many women don’t realize the pain medication they receive is also passed on to their baby and can influence breastfeeding outcomes. Because of this, many babies are born slightly “drugged” from the pain medication. This can interfere with their innate suckling behavior that normally expresses itself shortly after birth. It is not unusual for babies exposed to an epidural to have difficulty with latching on and an uncoordinated suck/swallow response for hours, or even days.
Why do women forget birthing?
Due to the medical institutionalization of birth in North America, most women forget birthing is a natural experience that, in most cases, does not need medical intervention. Women have been delivering babies naturally for millennia. It is what our bodies were designed to do.
Is natural birth good for women?
7 Benefits of Natural Childbirth. Natural childbirth, also known as un-medicated birth, has many hidden benefits that more women of childbearing age should be aware of. In our society, giving pain medication for labor is so normal that most doctors assume a laboring woman will want it, and most mothers-to-be expect it.
Can you get up after labor?
Women who planned natural childbirths often feel great for a short while after delivering their babies. Because no numbing drugs were used, and no tubes or needles were stuck into their body parts , naturally birthing moms can get up shortly after labor if they desire, and walk around or take a shower.
How long does it take to recover from a natural birth?
Recovery after any type of childbirth depends on the individual. Many women feel fully recovered in six to eight weeks, but for others, it can take months. Recovery from a “natural” childbirth is similar to any other vaginal birth. You’ll probably be sore for at least a few days.
Why do women choose natural delivery?
Other women choose a “natural” delivery because they want more control over the labor process, including their pain management. Or they may feel that forgoing medication will help them feel closer to the birthing experience and remember it more clearly.
What kind of medicine is given during labor?
These both allow you to be awake and alert during labor, but with very little pain. Different types of medication can be given in an epidural or spinal injection. One type is a pain reliever, such as a narcotic.
How to relieve pain during delivery?
There are a variety of common pain relief methods you may use during delivery. methods to relieve pain during delivery. breathing techniques. massage. warm shower or bath. You may also be able to give birth in a tub, depending on what your birthing center or hospital offers.
What are the risks of pregnancy?
Your pregnancy may be considered high risk if you: 1 are older than 35 2 drank alcohol or used drugs while pregnant 3 have had previous surgery on your uterus, such as a C-section 4 have a history of medical conditions such as diabetes, preeclampsia, or blood-clotting issues 5 are carrying more than one fetus 6 have had certain complications during pregnancy, such as fetal growth restriction or issues with the placenta
Can you give birth without pain medication?
If you think giving birth without medication sounds impossible, there are many reasons why some women choose to do it. Pain medication can affect labor, such as speeding it up or slowing it down. It can also have effects on the mother, such as lowering blood pressure or causing nausea.
Can you have a baby before labor?
Even if you’ve had a baby before, you don’t know how bad your pain will be during labor or how well you’ll be able to cope with it. Every delivery, whether you use pain medications or not, has a risk of complications, such as heavy blood loss or issues with the umbilical cord.
What are the pros and cons of natural birth?
Here are the pros: 1 Most natural childbirth techniques are not invasive, so there's little potential for harm or side effects for you or your baby. 2 Many women have a strong feeling of empowerment during labor and a sense of accomplishment afterward. Despite having to endure pain, many report that they'll choose an unmedicated birth again the next time. For some women, being in charge helps lessen their perception of pain. 3 There's no loss of sensation or alertness. You can move around more freely and find positions that help you stay comfortable during labor. And you'll remain able to participate in the delivery process when it's time to push your baby out. 4 You're less likely than women who get epidurals to need interventions such as oxytocin (Pitocin) to make your contractions stronger, bladder catheterization, or a vacuum extraction or forceps delivery 5 Your partner can be involved in the process as you work together to manage your pain. 6 You can use the breathing exercises, visualization, and self-hypnosis you learn both during labor and later on. Many new mothers find themselves drawing on their relaxation techniques in the early days of breastfeeding, while coping with postpartum discomfort, or during those times when caring for a newborn feels especially stressful.
What is the best way to do labor and birth?
A natural, unmedicated approach to labor and birth will suit you best if you want to remain in control of your body as much as possible, be an active participant throughout labor, and have minimal routine interventions such as continuous electronic monitoring. If you choose to go this route, you accept the potential for pain ...
What to do if your doula won't be by your side during labor?
If your practitioner won't be by your side for the duration of your labor, hiring a doula to stay with you and coach you may be particularly valuable. Find a childbirth educator with a strong focus on natural childbirth to teach you a variety of coping methods and help you understand what to expect during labor.
How to help with labor pain?
Massage, touch, and hot and cold therapy. Massage promotes relaxation, soothes tense muscles, and may reduce your perception of labor pain. You can get a massage from your doula or other support person, or from your partner – a loved one's touch can be very reassuring if you're feeling anxious.
How does yoga help with contractions?
These techniques draw on relaxation and partnership as a way to manage your contractions. And there's some research suggesting that relaxation techniques and yoga are associated with decreased pain, fewer forceps or vacuum-assisted deliveries, and increased satisfaction with the experience of childbirth.
What is a birth center?
Birth centers are designed to provide a natural, family-centered experience, and you can certainly arrange things as you like at home. If you're planning a natural childbirth in a traditional hospital setting, you'll want to discuss your wishes and goals explicitly with your caregiver. Find out which interventions are considered routine at ...
Why do you need hydrotherapy?
Like other drug-free options, hydrotherapy allows you to remain alert and in control. Immersing yourself in water relieves pressure on the body, promotes muscle relaxation, and may reduce pain, anxiety, and the need for medication.
What is natural birth?
The term "natural birth" has historically been used to refer to vaginal labor and delivery with limited to no medical intervention; it can involve a variety of choices, from the doctor you choose to the pain relief you use. Here are the most common options usually involved in a unmedicated birth:
What is the best position to give birth?
Instead of lying on your back in bed, opting for alternative delivery positions including squatting, all fours (hands and knees), kneeling, or leaning against something (a chair or your partner) Giving birth in a tub of warm water.
How many weeks pregnant can you have a baby without pain medication?
You're likely a good candidate if you: Are expecting one baby. Are considered full-term, or are at least 37 weeks along in your pregnancy.
Why do I walk around after birth?
In turn, walking will help speed recovery and can help avoid constipation ( a common post-birth ailment ).
How to get a baby out of your body?
Visualize a successful outcome, have faith in it, and keep going back to that picture during the labor process. Believe in the power of positive intention , and know that you are strong and your body will get you through.
Can you have a birth without pain medication?
Some women find the pain is much more intense than they anticipated. However, know that you can always let your practitioner know you're planning for a birth without pain medication and ask for an epidural at any time during the process if the pain gets to be too much. You may need general anesthesia.
Should I take an exam for natural birth?
You wouldn’t take an exam without studying, so you shouldn’t try natural birth without reading up on it and talking to friends and family members who have gone through it. Take classes, too, to practice techniques that can be useful in the delivery room. Learn about natural pain management techniques.
Why is water birth so popular?
Water birth is becoming more popular and for good reason. It’s been shown to help with pain relief and reduce perineal tearing, and it’s a gentle way for a baby to come into the world since the environment’s so similar to the one they were just in.
How to help with labor pain?
At home you can feel at ease drinking a soothing cup of medicinal tea or taking a tincture without question. However, always consult a qualified practitioner.
What percentage of cesareans are caused by unnecessary induction of labor?
Unnecessary induction of labor increases the risk of cesarean by 67 percent . Rosalie Grivell, one of the main researchers in this University of Adelaide study, states: “ We hope our findings will increase awareness of potential complications related to the common use of induction of labor in situations where there is no serious maternal or fetal problem.”
Why is cord clamping important for babies?
Studies show that delayed cord clamping in preemies helps regulate blood pressure in the following days. In addition, fewer blood transfusions are needed and serious complications are more easily avoided.
Why do babies twist and turn?
The baby is also working to wriggle out of his home for the last 9 months. Babies turn and twist in order to find the clearest path to the light. The more alert and aware the baby is when entering the world, the easier it will be on mom.
Does oxytocin help with uterine contraction?
Oxytocin helps to contract the uterus after birth and prevent hemorrhage. One study showed that birth induction increased the risk of hemorrhage and that c-sections increased the risk of endometritis, pneumonia, and the need for blood transfusions.
