What NOT to do While Giving Birth Naturally

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Have you ever heard that natural childbirth is more beneficial for the mother and the baby than a Cesarean section?

Unless there is a medical condition or circumstance that places the mother and/or the baby’s health at risk, it is in your best interest to select a vaginal delivery rather than a C-section.

According to statistics, women are three times more likely to die from a C-section due to complications With natural childbirth, you will have a faster recovery time and be able to create a special bond with your child.

However, there are certain things that you must avoid to have a successful natural childbirth.

Refrain from Hyperventilating

It is imperative that you learn proper breathing techniques to help you alleviate the pain that comes from contractions during labor and throughout your pregnancy.

Deep and controlled breaths will allow your lungs to expand as you inhale and release carbon dioxide as you exhale.

Studies have also shown that hyperventilating may cause negative effects on the fetus because it reduces the amount of oxygen he or she receives.

Therefore, you should avoid hyperventilating to preserve your baby’s health.

Feed Yourself Adequately Before Labor

Some people may have told you not to eat before giving birth, but that’s incorrect.

Labor is a strenuous process that can drain all your energy and even cause dizzy spells.

I have known many childbirths that transformed into urgent C-sections because the mother was too fatigued to push anymore.

Thus, you should always consume a protein-rich meal with complex carbohydrates, like pasta or bread, so you can have all the strength necessary to bring your baby to this world.

Related: Healthy pregnancy diet tips

Avoid pushing too fast

You must understand that the contractions are your womb’s way of opening up your cervix so your baby can pass swiftly through the vaginal canal.

Therefore, the initial contractions are only informing you that you are going into labor, yet you are not ready to give birth just YET…

Pushing beforehand has minimal effect on quickening childbirth and can actually do more harm than good. If you push too soon, your baby’s head will impact against your cervix, causing a bump on his or her head.

Additionally, your cervix can swell and obstruct your baby’s passage, which can lead to an emergency C-section.

Prepare an Organized Birth Plan

It is best to have a well-designed birth plan months before your expected due date.

You must inform your spouse and family about the hospital or clinic where you will give birth so they are ready to assist you if it is necessary.

You must also have the essential things of the baby, such as diapers, clothes, blankets, and wipes, ready in a bag for a quick grab.

Believe me, you would not want to be running around looking for items as the contractions become more intense.

Better to be safe than sorry.

Related: Baby prep guide

Don’t Go to the Hospital Beforehand

If your due date is near and you feel some contractions, it doesn’t mean that you have to rush to the hospital.

On average, labor usually lasts between 24 to 48 hours.

The first contractions are telling you to have everything ready before the party truly starts.

However, there are some telltale signs that will inform you that it is time to go to the hospital:

Your water breaks
A vaginal discharge tinted with blood
Frequent and intense contractions
Intense back pain

If you follow the previous instructions, your childbirth will be a wonderful experience and you will be able to connect with your baby as soon as you bring it to the world.

All women are strong and you are capable of doing anything you set your mind to!