As a mother-to-be, you have many dreams about the day you give birth. Some mothers prefer to avoid medical equipment and medications as much as possible and experience the experience in a very natural way. This is not about doing something heroic, but about trusting in the strength of your body and willing to go on this wonderful journey. So today, let's talk about this natural birth , that is, a 'Natural Birth'.
What exactly is a natural birth?
Simply put, a natural birth is about allowing the natural process of childbirth to occur with as little medical intervention as possible. Here's what happens:
- No painkillers: From the moment labor begins until the baby is born, no painkillers, such as an epidural, are used. Instead, pain is managed through breathing exercises and various postures.
- Fewer artificial interventions: Things like making a small cut (an episiotomy) in the area between the vagina and anus (the perineum) to make way for the baby to come out, or continuously monitoring the baby's heartbeat (continuous fetal monitoring) are not done unless absolutely necessary.
- Mother First: The mother gets the opportunity to lead the entire process. She gets the freedom to stay in a comfortable position, walk, and work with the baby as she pleases.
This method attempts to emphasize the idea that childbirth is not an illness, but rather a very natural and powerful process inherent in the female body.
Why do some mothers prefer this method?
The reasons for choosing a natural birth may vary from person to person. Here are some common reasons.
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Reluctance to undergo medical interventions | The desire to give birth completely naturally, without painkillers or artificially induced labor. |
| Easy, familiar environment | The desire to face this moment with family, in a familiar, comfortable place like home. |
| Dissatisfaction with hospital care | Perhaps you are looking for another option because you were not satisfied with the services you received at a previous hospital. |
| More freedom and control | The desire to have the entire process under their control, the way they want it. |
| Cultural or religious reasons | The desire to give birth according to one's cultural or religious beliefs. |
| low cost | In some cases, this can be done at a lower cost than the cost of a hospital delivery. |
How do you cope with the pain during this process?
You may be wondering how to cope with this pain without medication. There are various ways to do that too. These can strengthen the mother and help her manage the pain.
Two of the most famous methods in the world are the `(Lamaze)` and `(Bradley)` methods.
- Lamaze technique: This method emphasizes that childbirth is a natural, healthy process. However, the mother is allowed to use painkillers if she wants. It empowers the mother to decide what is best for her.
- Bradley method: This is also known as ``Husband-Coached Birth''. Here, the emphasis is on avoiding the use of medications as much as possible. During pregnancy, good nutrition, exercise, deep breathing techniques, and relaxation techniques are taught. But the mother is also mentally prepared for an emergency, even a cesarean section.
In addition to these two methods, many other things can help you cope with pain:
- Changing positions: rocking slowly, leaning against walls, sitting on a birthing ball .
- Distraction: listening to music, thinking about something you like.
- Hypnosis: Also called `(Hypnobirthing)`. Hypnosis is used to calm the mind and control pain.
- Being in water: Being in a hot tub or jacuzzi relaxes the body .
- Massage: Having your husband or a helper massage your back and neck.
- Meditation and walking.
In what situations does it become necessary to be transferred to a hospital urgently?
Even if you plan a natural birth, sometimes unexpected complications can arise. If that happens, you and your baby will need to be transferred to a hospital, usually the Emergency Department (ETU) . This is what can happen in a situation like this.
| Situations that may lead to transfer to a hospital | |
|---|---|
| Delay in delivery | Even though it's been a long time since the onset of menstruation, things like the opening of the cervix don't happen as expected. |
| The baby is uncomfortable. | Signs that the baby is under stress, such as an abnormal heartbeat. |
| Baby's position | The baby is in a different position (e.g., buttocks down) rather than head down. |
| Intolerance of pain | If the pain becomes unbearable with natural methods and painkillers are needed. |
| High blood pressure | If a condition such as high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia) occurs during pregnancy. |
| Heavy bleeding | If you start bleeding heavily before or after the baby is born. |
Does this method really suit you?
Natural childbirth can be a beautiful and empowering experience for a mother. If you want to be an active participant in the birth process, be in the position you want, hold your baby close after birth, and share the moment with your family, this may be a good option for you.
But, the most important thing is to understand that this is not for everyone. Childbirth, whether done at home or in a hospital, carries some risks. Therefore, it is essential to research carefully and make an informed decision.
A few things to consider
- Talk to your doctor: This is the first and most important step. Talk to your obstetrician about your preferences. He or she is the best person to tell you how safe a natural birth is for you, given your health condition.
- Have a Plan B: Even if you think everything will go well, have a plan in place in case of an emergency. Plan in advance what you will do and who you will contact if you have to transfer to a hospital.
- Choose a qualified midwife: If you are seeking the help of a midwife for this, research her experience and qualifications carefully. Choose someone who respects your opinions and whom you can trust.
- Pediatrician: Find and talk to a pediatrician in advance who can examine your baby as soon as you have him.
Take-Home Message
- Natural childbirth means minimizing medication and medical interventions and allowing the natural process of childbirth to take place.
- This can be a very beautiful and empowering experience, but it is not a one-size-fits-all, risk-free experience.
- Before making a decision about this, be sure to talk to your doctor and get advice on whether this is suitable for your health condition.
- Always be prepared for an emergency. It is essential to have a backup plan in case you need to transfer to a hospital.
- Regardless of how the birth takes place, the most important thing is the safety of the mother and child.
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