5 tips for preparing for a natural birth

Natural, or physiological, birth takes place in a non-medicalised setting. It is a vaginal birth with no medical interventions, carried out under the supervision of midwives. The aim is to support as natural a birth as possible. Certain conditions are necessary to allow a mother to have a natural birth. These include having a low-risk pregnancy, no previous caesarean section, no relevant medical history, and no risk ofbreech birth, that you are not carrying twins, and that the birth is not premature. 

The first piece of advice we can give, if you plan to give birth naturally — that is, without medical intervention (or as little as possible) — and giving birth without an epidural, is to learn about the physiology of labour. Why? Because once you understand the incredible mechanics the body puts in place during a natural birth, you can only have confidence in the resources of human nature to give birth serenely. Reading such books helps to prepare you mentally. 

# "J'accouche bientôt: que faire de la douleur ?" by Maïtie Trélaün.

This book is a gem for supporting mothers through the adventure of a natural birth. It presents the entire physiological process of labour in a clear and accessible way. Maïtie Trélaün is a French midwife. She shares the keys to understanding pain in labour — how to approach and make sense of it. By changing our perception of the pain associated with childbirth and giving it meaning, we give our brain the opportunity to reduce the perceived (and therefore real!) intensity of that pain.

This book also covers, in a practical way, the mechanics of the hormones involved during labour. These hormones are there to help us cope with pain, particularly through endorphins (the body's natural painkiller). It also explains how epidural analgesia intervenes in this process and what its consequences are.

Finally, the other half of this book features many accounts of natural births, inviting us to project our minds into this magical adventure. In short, this book invites us to reflect on the suffering automatically associated with birth — perceived as a painful ordeal — and to transform that experience into a transcendent celebration of our feminine power, so as to give birth naturally. 

# "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth" by Ina May Gaskin.

This longer and more detailed book opens with accounts of a multitude of unique and intense physiological birth experiences. Most often they take place at home, but also in birth centres. Ina May Gaskin is an American midwife and a legend in her field. She helps us reconnect with our capacities as women. This book addresses, without taboo, the physiological, sexual and spiritual dimensions of natural birth. It is a precious gift for revealing the power of our sacred feminine.

Once you have all the keys to understanding the physiology of labour, it will be much easier to choose what suits you, consciously. Here are a few suggestions for natural methods. Other methods are often covered in antenatal preparation classes. 

Haptonomie

Haptonomie is a method of communication through touch with the baby, in utero. It involves making precise movements to establish a connection with them. It includes co-parents. Haptonomie sessions generally offer guidance on a few acupuncture points that the partner can stimulate during labour to provide relief for the mother-to-be. Various positions for managing contractions can also be practised. Finally, you practise contracting the right muscles for an effective birth. To find out more, see our article: pregnancy acupuncture. 

The Bonapace method

This method, developed by Julie Bonapace, is also based on the stimulation of acupuncture points as well as breathing and visualisation exercises. These methods, complemented by the unwavering support of a trusted person providing a reassuring environment for the mother, bring together the essential elements for a successful natural birth. She also trains midwives in her method. 

Prenatal yoga

The prenatal yoga can be of great help. Gentle stretches can in particular help to provide relief. They help to loosen the pelvis and gently open the cervix. This is done using a yoga ball or "gym ball". Prenatal yoga can be practised individually, in a group, or online from home!

Some midwives are trained to help you give birth naturally, in particular using hypnosis or acupuncture techniques.  

Writing it helps you establish a reassuring framework in your mind, and to explore the different choices available to you. Whatever the actual outcome of your birth, it is important that it is shared and that your wishes are respected as much as possible. It is not about having a rigid idea of how your labour will unfold. It gives a guiding thread to the team supporting you, helping to maintain that cocoon of trust throughout. When putting it together, keep in mind that letting go will be one of the keys to a successful birth. There will always be unexpected developments (a caesarean, for example). It is there to preserve a familiar framework that is in keeping with your needs, whatever happens.

Here is an example of a structured birth plan — mine: 

- General (general wishes, main points in 5 items).

- Arrival at the maternity unit / during labour / dilation.

- At the moment of full dilation / pushing stage.

- Baby's arrival.

- Post-birth.

The physiology of childbirth tells us that a woman in labour will not give birth in optimal conditions if she feels fear, discomfort, or if she feels observed. This is why, wherever possible, it is essential to create a safe and intimate space. She will need to feel supported but not watched — and certainly not by someone she does not trust. This can block the physiological processes.

Finally, here are some tips and plants that may help with a natural birth. 

Herbal teas to prepare for natural birth

You are wondering how to give birth more quickly ? You can try the raspberry leaf herbal tea. This plant helps to tone the uterus and increase the effectiveness of contractions during labour. It may also help to reduce the duration of the second stage of labour. You can drink one to two cups per day during the last month of pregnancy. It is best to avoid it before then, to reduce any risk of labour induction. It can be taken in addition to your pregnancy food supplement.

Chamomile herbal teas are helpful for lifting your mood and relaxing when feeling stressed. These plants are ideal throughout labour to prepare you mentally.

Aromatherapy for natural birth

Here is a winning aromatherapy combination — specially for natural birth:

- Diffuse bay laurel essential oil for confidence and courage.

- Diffuse sweet orange essential oil for relaxation.

- Application of vegetable oil blended with essential oils of petitgrain bigarade, Roman chamomile, and bay laurel: 2 to 3 drops applied neat to the wrists and solar plexus before and during labour to help ease stress.

- Circular massage using vegetable oil (10 drops) in which you dilute palmarosa essential oil (5 drops), thyme thujanol (5 drops), and clove (2 drops). Apply to the lower back and abdomen, before and during labour. This helps to encourage onset, strengthen contractions, and relieve pain. Use only during the week of your due date!

Thanks to Sandra Tolosa - Coach & Naturopath, for her contribution: 

"I hope this article will help you prepare the natural birth of your dreams with complete peace of mind."

Do not hesitate to consult your healthcare team (midwife, GP, gynaecologist, etc.) to get the best support and make your choice.