During pregnancy there are many things on your to do list. One of those should be preparing for labor. Rather you plan to labor and deliver at home, birth center, hospital; medicated or non-medicated. It is important to be aware of various ways you can cope with labor & birth. Here we will dive deep into one crucial step, creating your idea labor environment.
There are many factors to consider when envisioning your idea labor environment. In this part of the series we will dive deep into selecting the people that will be present during your labor.
Decide if you only want people present who are there to support you or if you are comfortable with ¨spectators¨ who are there primarily to watch and anxiously wait for a chance to hold your new baby. When building your support team, you can’t have too much support, however, it is possible to choose the wrong support people which may lead to a stressful environment that will negatively impact labor. The goal is to surround yourself with positive family and friends who help you feel relaxed, happy, safe and powerful. People who will respect your desires, advocate for you as needed, love on you and happily assist with your comfort however you request. Your support team can provide massage, speak powerful encouraging words, tell jokes, feed you, or simply hold your hand. While laboring you may feel exposed not only physically but emotionally as well. Consider people you will feel completely comfortable around during this time.
There is also the option of hiring a doula. Doulas are a healthy addition to support teams as they are trained and certified to provide support during labor, delivery and postpartum. The support provided will depend on your needs. You can interview one or more during pregnancy to find the best fit. Visit dona.org to learn more and search for doulas in your area. You can also search for local doulas via any online search engine. Ask your provider or other moms for recommendations.
Write a list of people you believe meet this criteria. Imagine how it might feel to have them present while you’re laboring. Once you have chosen your support team you can include them in the prep leading up to the big day. Invite them to childbirth classes and appointments. This gives them the opportunity to hear the same information that is presented to you and ask appropriate questions which will prepare them to be a better support system. Remember, when you are preparing for your labor, envision your optimal environment. Plan to surround yourself with support people who honor your desires and will advocate for you. Select people who help you feel relaxed, happy, safe and powerful.
Peace & Love from Your Hippie Nurse
Comments