5 Things I Wish I Knew About HOUSTON Childbirth Before I Gave Birth | houston newborn
Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don't worry, I’ve got you!
Here are 5 things that I wish I knew about childbirth before I gave birth along with some questions that you can ask your doctor to better help alleviate some of your worries.
As a first time mom, childbirth can be scary. The unknown can be scary. Let’s unpack a few things that could help answer some of your questions.
C SECTIONS ARE NOT AS SCARY AS THEY SEEM
C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It's important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.
Believe me when I say that I have suffered through many anxiety thoughts and worries. With my first baby, I did have an unplanned cesarian. After trying to push for two hours with little to no progress, my doctor agreed that it was time for a c-section. My husband and I were in tears, scared of the unknown, and I was disappointed that my body couldn’t deliver my baby naturally.
We were prepped and I was wheeled off. I was immediately comforted by my husband that soon joined in the room. On my end, I was experiencing something new. But on the staff’s end, I took comfort however in seeing how my doctor and nurses just proceeded as normal, everything like a perfectly-orchestrated symphony. It was not their first rodeo of course. Baby was out, cried, and I was stitched up. Thankfully no complications.
The recovery was tough at home (but I think it’s also because I have a very low tolerance for pain). Soon enough though, there was light at the end of the tunnel and I was on my way to recovery. Fast forward to now, when we are planning our 3rd baby… my doctor and I know that I will have a planned c-section. I am confident in my doctor, the nurses, and the hospital.
Question for your doctor: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections?
YOU CAN EAT AND DRINK DURING LABOR
Having a light snack can help keep your energy levels up. It's important to listen to your body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished.
One of the first questions you will be asked when being admitted to the hospital to begin your labor process is “when was the last time you ate?” This is because they want to make sure you have nothing in your system, in case of emergencies, that might cause you to aspirate.
We all know that babies are unplanned however, and they come on their own time. So what happens if you were out eating your favorite tacos and you suddenly go into labor? (usually it’s not really like the movies FYI) Well… that just means you will have to fast when you arrive at the hospital.
In my case with my 1st child, I began contracting at about 7pm on a Monday night, we went to the hospital Tuesday morning, and baby didn’t arrive until Wednesday at 3:10am! That’s a hangry momma! I wish I would’ve stopped to eat something during that long labor process, even before I arrived to the hospital. I will say, once my epidural was in, I was allowed to have icey treats like popsicles and jello, juice and water. That helped a bit with the hunger. So no you will not be absolutely starved during labor.
What you are allowed to eat will depend on your hospital’s procedures. Many are now a little more relaxed with what is allowed. Some may even allow toast, broth, tea, carbonated beverages, etc. Overall, you will still have to eat lightly, but at least you can have something to help fuel you for labor.
Question: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?
DOULAS ARE A GREAT SUPPORT
A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth.
When we were taking our baby prep classes ahead of our first baby, we came across a doula that helped teach the class. At that time, I didn’t know much about what their role was during or after labor. It turns out that they can be a great support system for you. Offering advice, help alleviate pain with certain labor positions, and can offer overall guidance during labor.
Doulas can help to reduce anxiety and increase comfort levels during labor. They are trained to offer evidence-based information, helping parents make informed decisions about their care. Postnatally, doulas can assist with breastfeeding, newborn care, and maternal recovery, promoting a smoother transition into parenthood. This comprehensive support can lead to shorter labor durations, lower intervention rates, and increased overall satisfaction with the birthing experience.
Needing a few doula recommendations? Check these resources out to get you started:
What is a Doula? by the Motherhood Center
Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?
EPIDURALS AREN’T THE ONLY OPTION
Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.
Breathing techniques, often taught in childbirth classes, can help manage discomfort by promoting relaxation and focus. Water immersion, such as laboring in a warm tub or shower, may provide soothing relief and ease tension. Massage and counter-pressure applied by a partner or doula can also alleviate pain and enhance comfort. Additionally, using heat or cold packs on the back or abdomen can be effective in reducing labor pains. Positions like walking, swaying, or using a birthing ball may further help in coping with contractions.
It’s ultimately up to you momma if you’d like to get an epidural. It’s also ok to change your mind. There is no gold badge for an epidural or epidural-free labor. Every woman has a different pain tolerance level. Every baby delivered might have a different labor experience too.
Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural?
POSITIONS THAT MAY HELP WITH LABOR
There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.
One effective position is kneeling on all fours, also known as the "hands and knees" position. This stance allows gravity to assist in moving the baby down the birth canal and helps relieve back pain, as it takes pressure off the spine. Additionally, it enables the laboring person to sway their hips, which can aid in managing contractions. This position also opens up the pelvis, creating better fetal positioning.
Another beneficial position is sitting on a birthing ball, which provides stability and encourages gentle movement. The rocking motion while sitting on the ball can help relax the pelvic muscles, while the height of the ball allows mom to keep their legs positioned to widen the pelvis. This setup can promote better circulation and contribute to an overall sense of control during labor. Both positions offer varying levels of comfort and may be alternated as needed to respond to the body's signals throughout the labor process.
After my own birth experience, I realized that my nurses never tried any other positions to help my labor progress. Something that I wish I would’ve known. This of course depends on your hospitals’s protocols and if you have had an epidural. An epidural may increase your fall risk, so some nurses may limit your movement.
Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?
I hope reading this list has helped you in some way to prepare for your own childbirth experience soon. Or at the very least, given you some questions that you can ask your doctor at your next appointment.
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5 THINGS I WISH I KNEW ABOUT HOUSTON LABOR & DELIVERY BEFORE I GAVE BIRTH | HOUSTON NEWBORN
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