6 Secrets To An Easier Labor And Delivery

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Bringing new life into the world isn’t easy. In fact, it’s a huge physical trauma. Through the rewards are more than worth the effort, giving birth is a process most moms would do anything to make just a little bit easier. Unfortunately, there’s no way of getting around the amount of physical and mental work childbirth requires, but, just a little preparation can make a significant difference. Keep reading for six things that you can do for an easier labor and delivery.

1. Keep Yourself In Shape

When your belly is so huge that you can’t see your feet, exercise is likely the last thing on your mind. However, it has been found that pregnant women who keep in shape often have shorter labors. This is because physical fitness can help to improve your strength and stamina. Regular workouts can also decrease weight gain and swelling, so try walking, swimming, and yoga.

2. Choose The Right Doctor

Before it gets too close to your due date, you need to find a doctor that you jive with. This should be someone that you trust and feel comfortable expressing concerns to and asking questions. Your doctor should also fully support your birth philosophy and choices. When you find the right caregiver for you, they will serve as a great comfort during your labor and the delivery.

3. Prepare A Birth Plan

Writing a birth plan can help you to mentally prepare for the day of your birth, as well as express your wishes in a time you probably won’t feel like talking. The amount of detail you put into this plan is completely up to you, but you must remember that things can change. If diverting from the plan is going to cause you more anxiety, then it’s best to keep your points quite general.

4. Take A Childbirth Class

The reason childbirth is so scary for most women is that they don’t really know what to expect. Because of this, you may benefit from learning a little more about it. A childbirth class can teach you about all of the stages of labor and delivery, as well as ways you and your partner can comfort one another. In addition to this, you can also watch birthing videos and read books.

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5. Try To Distract Yourself

Active labor can easily last up to and over a day. For this reason, it helps to find ways to distract yourself. As tempting as it is to sit back and count your contractions, this will probably stress and wear you out. Instead, use a smart contractions timer so that you avoid missing a contraction again. While that counts for you, you can lose yourself in an activity, like baking or walking.

6. Line Up Extra Support

Your partner will probably be by your side during labor, but some choose to line up extra support too. With a doula by your side, you’ll have someone else there to keep your calm and offer encouragement and guidance, which can make labor and delivery a more pleasant experience. Just make sure that you discuss this extra labor support with your doctor and partner.

Giving birth will never be easy, but, with these tips, you should be able to enjoy the experience a little more.