Preparing for labour? This is where to start!

Let’s be honest. You can never be 100% prepared for labour. You can make the best, most detailed plan, but it will never go exactly as planned. That’s why we like to speak about Birth wishes, instead of a birth plan. To get you started we created a template which you can use to describe your dream scenario, and to think about the what ifs.. It doesn’t get much easier than that!

To make sure that you (even if things don’t go according to plan) know what to expect, and to prepare you to make the right choices for your delivery you can read books, sign up for a course or do some mental preparations. Don’t know where to start? We got you!

Do your research

Although the internet is full of information, it might also be a little overwhelming. A book, then, is a great starting point for your research. It can also help to discuss labour with others who went through it, like friends and family members. They can tell you their birth stories and explain why they made certain choices, which might help you to make yours! Try to gather as many positive stories as possible, it’s best to stay away from the scary and negative as this won’t help you.

By doing your research it also becomes easier to have a conversation with your care provider. You get to ask more (informed) questions, it’s easier to discuss your wishes as you can explain why certain choices are important for you and you’re more prepared for sudden changes because of complications. By doing your research you know for sure you’ll be in control during the birth of your little one.

Relax

A lot of moms (to be) struggle to relax during pregnancy. Work, a social life, preparing for baby’s arrival and other kids (if this isn’t your first) all need your attention. Maybe you usually don’t struggle with having a thousand things on your to do list, but during pregnancy you body is working overtime and it all might feel a little heavier. A little extra rest goes a long way. Take care of yourself, listen to your body and make sure to plan your maternity leave in time so you can get a little break. Giving birth is an intense experience that will cost a lot of energy, so make sure you do everything you can to get some rest beforehand.

Who can be there during your delivery?

Your partner? Your mom? Or your best friend? Make sure to have a clear picture of who you want there in this special moment, so that you don’t get overwhelmed with surprises. No one wants an unexpected room full of people during this delicate time. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable with the people surrounding you. Make sure to create a safe environment!

Sign up for a birthing course

Maybe hypnobirthing is something for you, or another kind of birthing course. There are also a lot of (free) preparation courses online, also for your partner. You could also think about joining pregnancy yoga or bootcamp classes. There’s a lot of choices out there, just see what fits you. 

Think about the hows and wheres

A home birth or rather the hospital? In a bath, on a birthing stool? Standing up, laying down? There are many possibilities when it comes to giving birth. There are no rights and wrongs, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable. Candles and music help you relax? Go for it! Rather sit in total silence, also fine. It’s up to you. And don’t forget to think about pain relief and the golden hour (the first hour after birth). Keep in mind: labour almost never goes according to plan, so be ready to adjust too.

The basic steps of delivery

Every delivery is different, but there are a couple of phases that everyone has to go through, although the order can change. We’ve made this quick guide, so you know what to expect. Note: these are the steps of a vaginal labour, during an (emergency) c-section it will be different.

1. First contractions. When light cramps start to become more frequent and intense, that’s when you are starting to have contractions. In this moment you will know: I am in labour.

2. Dilation contractions. These will cause the cervix to open up until 10 centimeters. Some women are already dilated a little before labour really starts, but this doesn’t mean things will move quicker. The dilation contractions feel like waves and take about 1 to 2 minutes. 

3. Membranes. When you’re about to give birth, your water breaks (the membranes open). This could happen at the start, in the middle, or at the end. It can also not happen at all, in which case your care provider might break them for you. Usually this is the point when everything goes quicker. 

4. Pushing. When you’re 10 centimetres dilated you’ll feel the need to start pushing (as if you need to go to the bathroom). These contractions are very strong and the last phase before your baby is born. Almost there!

5. Head and body. The birth of the head of your baby can burn a little, this is known as the ring of fire. It usually won’t take long and the hardest part is done! After the head is out, the body follows quickly.

6. Placenta. Congratulations, your baby is here. Now you still need to birth the placenta. Your uterus will continue to contract and you need to push a little more to get the placenta out. Your care provider might help a little with some extra pressure on your stomach. It can take a few minutes for the placenta to be born, but it can also take a little longer. 

7. Umbilical cord. Time to cut the cord! Some people will do this as soon as it’s allowed, others like to delay this moment. It’s up to you! No matter what you choose to do, your baby is ready for some skin to skin, so start cuddling!

As you can see, giving birth is quite the proces. And not one birth is the same. With these basics about labour we hope to give you some food for thought, so you can start prepping for the moment you’ll meet your little one. You got this!