Natural Birth - Everything You Need to Know & How to Prepare for Natural Birth

Natural childbirth is one of the oldest and most natural experiences a woman can go through. But that doesn't mean it doesn't come with emotions and a lot of questions. Once you realize you're pregnant , being informed and prepared becomes a primary need.

How does labor begin? What are the stages? How much does it hurt and how can you manage the pain? In this article you will find answers to all these questions, you will understand step by step what happens during natural childbirth and you will discover how you can prepare yourself physically and emotionally to experience these moments as confidently and peacefully as possible.

What is natural childbirth and how does it take place?

Natural birth is the process by which a baby is born through the vaginal canal, without major surgical intervention. It takes place in several stages, from labor to the expulsion and removal of the placenta, which we will tell you all about in a few moments.

Of course, "natural" is just a common term used to describe this type of birth. It's the way the female body was designed to give birth, and for many women it can be a deeply transformative experience.

But you should know that there is nothing unnatural about a birth that involves medication, minor interventions, or even a cesarean section. In the end, every birth is a real, intense, overwhelming experience, and the most important thing is that both the mother and the baby she brings into the world are healthy.

The difference between natural birth and cesarean section

The main difference between the two types of birth is that natural birth involves a physiological process, while cesarean section involves a surgical intervention in which the doctor extracts the baby directly from the uterus through an abdominal incision.

Recovery is usually faster after natural birth and the risk of complications is lower, but it can be more unpredictable and physically demanding.

Cesarean birth, on the other hand, can be planned. But it involves a longer recovery period and the risks specific to surgery.

The choice between the two is made together with your doctor, depending on your health condition and medical recommendations.

How painful is natural childbirth?

The pain of natural childbirth is intense, but the intensity is different for each woman. How painful the entire experience is depends on several factors, including your personal pain tolerance threshold, your level of anxiety, how quickly labor is progressing, and the position of your baby.

Preparing for natural birth

Preparing for birth doesn't start in the last weeks of pregnancy, when you pack your maternity bag. It starts in the first few months, with both new physical habits and intense psychological preparation.

After confirming your pregnancy, it is important to talk to your gynecologist to get accurate, clear information, and personalized recommendations. You have about 9 months until the baby arrives to be as well informed as possible and to understand exactly every event that will take place throughout.

It is a period when it is recommended to take more care of your health and emotional balance, so that you are as relaxed and confident as possible at the time of birth.

Physical preparation for pregnancy

Your body goes through amazing transformations during the 9 months of pregnancy. The way you take care of yourself, your diet, and your level of physical activity leading up to birth will directly influence how your birth goes. That's why your first responsibility as a future mother is to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding physical preparation:

Medical evaluation during pregnancy

Monitoring your pregnancy at every stage is essential for your safety and that of your baby. Your gynecologist will recommend a set of tests and investigations during each trimester, including:

• Periodic gynecological consultations , to monitor the development of the fetus and your health.
• Blood tests , such as complete blood count, blood type, blood sugar, liver function tests, and kidney function tests
• Tests for HIV, hepatitis B and C infections , syphilis, toxoplasmosis, Pap test at the beginning of pregnancy if not done recently.
• Trimester ultrasounds , to assess the baby's growth and position.

Supplements and nutrition for pregnancy

After medical checkups, the next aspect with a major impact on how your pregnancy and birth will go is how you nourish your body to support your baby's growth and all the changes you're going through.

A balanced diet and the right prenatal supplements play a crucial role in the healthy development of the baby and in preparing a strong and healthy body to bring it into the world.

As a rule, the following are recommended:

• Folic acid supplementation , ideally at least 3 months before conception.
• Taking prenatal vitamins with iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other important minerals.
• A balanced diet , rich in protein, fiber, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats.
• Limiting sugar and ultra-processed foods to maintain optimal energy levels and a healthy weight.

Healthy lifestyle during pregnancy

Small daily habits can make a huge difference. There are habits that can harm you and your baby, and habits that can protect you both. Here's what you can do in terms of lifestyle to make your pregnancy and birth as easy as possible:

• Completely give up smoking and alcohol.
• Limit caffeine to a maximum of 200 mg per day (the equivalent of one cup of coffee).
• Stay hydrated and try to maintain an active lifestyle.
• Prioritize sleep, relaxation, and try to sleep at least 7-9 hours a night to recover and help your body reduce stress levels.

Useful exercises during pregnancy

Indeed, very intense physical exercise can be risky for expectant mothers and their baby. But that doesn't mean you should completely avoid any kind of physical exertion throughout your pregnancy.

For healthy people, moderate exercise appropriate for pregnancy can reduce back pain, improve posture, and prepare the body for labor. That's why pregnant women are even encouraged to practice forms of exercise such as:

• Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic muscles
• Daily walks of at least 20-30 minutes
• Swimming or light water gymnastics, gentle on the joints
• Prenatal stretching and yoga exercises for flexibility and relaxation

Lamaze courses and other breathing techniques

Birth preparation classes like Lamaze or other methods that teach breathing techniques can be a huge help in preparing for a natural birth. You can learn how to use your breath, how to relax, and how to focus so that you can better manage the stress and pain of childbirth.

Guided by specialists, you can better understand the stages of labor and how to prepare for them, so as to reduce your level of anxiety and fear of the unknown. These trainings can also be useful for your partner, who will learn how to actively support you during childbirth.

Emotional preparation for pregnancy

As I mentioned above, birth is not just a physical process. It is also an emotional transformation, involving a lot of new thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Your mental state can influence how you perceive labor and recovery afterward, so it's just as important to prepare for birth psychologically.

Stress management

Stress levels during pregnancy can affect the hormones involved in labor and make contractions more difficult to bear. Simple techniques like meditation, deep breathing, journaling, or simple walks in nature can help you reduce anxiety levels, calm your mind, and maintain clarity.

It is equally important to identify sources of stress and discuss them with your partner or doctor, to find solutions in time.

Emotional and relational stability

Open communication with your partner and emotional support are essential to feeling safe. Support from them, as well as from your family, can have a major impact on your well-being.

Don't hesitate to talk openly about your fears, expectations, or needs of any kind. All of these conversations can help reduce tension and strengthen relationships.

Additionally, involving your partner in medical visits and training courses can create a sense of team spirit, so that you feel safe and supported throughout this period.

Education and information

The more you know about the birth process, the more in control you will feel. Read trusted articles, attend prenatal classes, and most importantly, ask your doctor all the questions you have because they are best able to provide you with answers tailored to your situation.

Preparing for changes

After giving birth, your life (or at least part of your life) will inevitably change. It's normal to experience a period of adjustment. Your sleep schedule, your relationship, your daily priorities will be different than before you became a mother.

It's important to be aware of and accept these things early on to make your transition easier. Prepare yourself mentally for the challenges that may arise so that you don't get overwhelmed by all of these aspects.

Creating a support network - family, friends, mothers' groups

Pregnancy, childbirth, and new motherhood are major life changes. That's why it's essential for your emotional health to have trusted people around you who you can rely on. It's also important to understand that there's nothing wrong with asking for support and accepting help.

The support of family, friends, and especially your partner can make a big difference, especially in the last weeks of pregnancy and in the postpartum period, when adaptation can be more demanding.

Natural Birth - Benefits for Mother and Baby

Natural childbirth is often recommended when there are no medical contraindications, as it offers a number of advantages for both mother and baby. For many women, it represents a deeply emotional and unique experience.

The physiological process through which birth occurs supports the body's natural adaptation to this experience and can have positive long-term effects.

Natural Birth - Benefits for the Mother

Natural childbirth can bring numerous benefits to the mother's physical and emotional health, and the natural process of releasing hormones during labor can contribute to a stronger emotional bond with the baby from the very first moments.

Unlike cesarean section, natural birth most often means:

• Faster recovery: the absence of an abdominal incision means less postpartum pain and easier mobilization.
• Reduced risk of surgical complications: when there is no surgery, there is also no risk of postoperative infections or complications related to general anesthesia.
• Shorter hospitalization: Mothers who give birth naturally can often be discharged after just 24-48 hours, if no complications arise.
• The possibility of breastfeeding the newborn immediately after birth: this supports early lactation and creates a strong bond between mother and child.

Natural Birth - Benefits for the Baby

Vaginal birth also offers important health benefits for the baby. Passing through the birth canal helps the baby clear fluid from the lungs and activate its respiratory system more quickly, and immediate contact with the mother supports emotional adjustment and regulates body temperature.

• Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth: This is an ancient practice, the benefits of which include stabilizing the baby's heart rate and temperature. At the same time, contact with the mother gives the baby a sense of security.
• Exposure to the mother's beneficial bacteria: vaginal flora helps form the baby's healthy intestinal microbiome, strengthening their immunity.
• Easier adaptation to the external environment: contractions during birth prepare him for breathing and for the first hours of life.
• Can be breastfed from the first day: colostrum, the first breast milk, is extremely rich in antibodies and essential nutrients.

Natural Birth - Stages of Labor

The moment that marks the onset of labor is the beginning of labor. This is the process by which the body prepares for birth and helps the baby come into the world.

Labor, in turn, is divided into several stages, each with specific characteristics. It can be very helpful to understand these stages so that you feel more confident and collaborate better with the medical team.

Cervical dilation

The first and longest stage of labor is the dilation of the cervix. It must gradually shorten and open to 10 cm to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal.

During this period, contractions become more and more regular and stronger, and we have a separate blog article where we tell you how to distinguish them from false contractions .

Your body goes through two phases during this stage, namely:

• Passive phase: the cervix dilates to about 4-5 cm, contractions are mild, may occur at 10-15 minute intervals and gradually become more regular.
• Active phase: it is more intense, dilation progresses rapidly from 5 to 10 cm, and contractions are more frequent and painful, every 3-5 minutes. This is the period when the body exerts the most effort, and breathing techniques and the support of the partner become extremely useful.

Expulsion of the fetus

After the active phase of labor, comes the part where the baby is actually pushed out through the birth canal. This stage is called "expulsion of the fetus," it begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends with the birth of the baby.

During the expulsion, you will feel strong pressure in your pelvic area and a natural urge to push. Your medical team will guide you on how to push correctly to avoid ruptures and have an easier birth.

Placenta removal

After the baby is born, it is often placed on the mother's chest for skin-to-skin contact and for the first attempts at breastfeeding.

There is also a short stage where the placenta and membranes are expelled. This usually lasts between 5 and 30 minutes and may be accompanied by milder contractions. Your doctor will check to make sure the placenta has been completely expelled to prevent complications.

Birth with an epidural - What does it involve?

Epidural birth consists of administering a local anesthetic into the epidural space, through a very thin catheter inserted into the lumbar area of the back.

Its effect usually begins within 10-20 minutes of administration, numbing pain in the abdomen and lower limbs. You will still feel the pressure of contractions, but not the pain, so you can actively participate in the birth and push at the same time as the contractions.

It is the most well-known and effective method of pain relief during childbirth, and studies have shown that taking it early in labor can speed up its progress. In the absence of pain, it is easier for the mother to relax and follow the doctor's instructions.

Risks and challenges of natural birth

Although natural childbirth is a natural physiological process, it can also come with challenges. Most can be safely managed by your gynecologist, but being informed helps reduce the fear of the unknown.

It is important to know them to be emotionally prepared and to understand why the medical team may make certain decisions during labor:

• Prolonged labor: Labor can last several hours, sometimes even over 12-24 hours. In these situations, the doctor may recommend oxytocin infusions or other methods to stimulate contractions and facilitate cervical dilation.
• Perianal tears: As the baby passes through the birth canal, the tissues of the perineum can suffer small tears. These are common and usually heal easily, but in some cases they can be more extensive and require stitches.
• Fetal stress: can occur due to too intense contractions, the position of the umbilical cord, or other factors, and the medical team can intervene by changing the mother's position, administering oxygen, or even through an emergency cesarean section.

When is natural childbirth not indicated?

For most women, vaginal birth is a safe option. However, there are medical situations where, for the safety of the mother and baby, the doctor recommends a cesarean section.

These possible scenarios should be discussed with the doctor in advance, taking into account the mother's medical history, the progress of the pregnancy, and the condition of the fetus at the time of labor.

Among the most common situations in which natural childbirth is not indicated are:

• Multiple pregnancy, especially with twins or triplets in positions unfavorable for vaginal birth
• After a previous cesarean section
• When the mother's age is over 35 years
• When the mother consumed alcohol or other substances during pregnancy
• If the mother has health problems such as diabetes or clotting disorders
• When there are complications of placental development

Recovery after natural birth

After giving birth, the mother's body begins a gradual recovery process. This involves both physical and emotional recovery. This is a period that is essential for stabilizing your health and creating a strong bond with your newborn. Here's what you can expect:

Symptoms that may appear immediately after birth

Your body goes through rapid changes after giving birth, and it's normal to have:

• Postpartum bleeding: Light to moderate bleeding is normal in the first few weeks as the body removes uterine debris.
• Chills: Some people experience chills or tremors immediately after birth, in response to hormonal changes and intense physical exertion.
• Extreme fatigue: Labor is very demanding on the body and the first few days can be exhausting.

Tips and recommendations for the first weeks at home

The first few weeks after birth are a time of adjustment for both mother and baby. Here's what you can do to take good care of yourself physically and emotionally:

• Try to breastfeed as often as possible and watch for your baby's hunger cues. On our blog you can find a special article with useful information about breastfeeding .
• Diaper changes, cord hygiene, and temperature monitoring are essential for your baby's health. Don't hesitate to ask for help from medical staff or family whenever you need it.
• Continue the light exercises recommended by your doctor, avoid excessive exertion, and consume enough fluids to stay properly hydrated.
• With the new responsibilities of motherhood, getting a good night's sleep can be a challenge. Try to sleep when your baby sleeps and accept help from your partner or family to help you regain your energy.
• Talk about your emotions and fears, accept that hormonal changes can bring mood swings, and ask for support if you are experiencing prolonged anxiety or sadness.
• Continue to eat a balanced diet and include fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods in your diet to support recovery and lactation.

Myths about natural childbirth

Natural childbirth is surrounded by many myths and preconceptions that only amplify your fear and anxiety. That's why it's important to be properly informed, have realistic expectations, and make all important decisions together with your doctor, not after trivial discussions with other mothers.

Let's start this process right now by looking at some of the most common myths and the reality behind them:

• "Natural birth is always extremely painful and unbearable."
  It's true that labor can be painful, but the intensity varies greatly from mother to mother and depends on the baby's position, breathing techniques, support received, and preparation during pregnancy. Natural methods such as changing positions, controlled breathing, massage, or hydrotherapy can significantly reduce discomfort.
• "Only very strong women can give birth naturally."
  A woman's body is designed to give birth, and labor is a natural process that can be supported through prenatal exercise and relaxation techniques. Most women, regardless of their physical condition, can give birth naturally with proper guidance and support.
• "Once you choose natural birth, you can't use painkillers at all."
  Choosing a natural birth does not preclude the possibility of using analgesia if you feel the need. Epidurals or other methods of pain relief can be administered during labor without compromising vaginal birth.
• "Natural birth is always safer than cesarean section."
  Natural childbirth can have many benefits, but safety always depends on medical circumstances. There are situations where vaginal birth is not indicated and a cesarean section is the safest option for mother and baby.
• "If you've had a cesarean section, you can't give birth naturally anymore."
  Many women can give birth naturally even after a previous cesarean section. The decision is made together with the gynecologist, depending on the type of previous incision, the mother's medical history, and the risks involved.

Frequently asked questions about natural childbirth

We hope this article has helped you be a little more prepared, at least psychologically, for the events and transformations that vaginal birth entails. However, we know that it is an experience that raises many questions for expectant mothers, so in this section we have prepared quick answers to some of the most common questions:

How long does labor normally last?

The length of labor varies greatly, but on average it takes between 6 and 18 hours for a first birth. Subsequent labors may be shorter due to the body's previous experience.

Is natural childbirth painful?

The level of pain varies from mother to mother and depends on the intensity of the contractions, the position of the baby, and your own tolerance. Breathing techniques, preparation during pregnancy, partner support, and medical methods can significantly reduce discomfort.

Can you have a natural birth after a cesarean section?

Yes, in many cases it is possible to have a vaginal birth even if you have previously had a cesarean section. Your doctor will assess the safety based on your medical history and the risks involved.

What role does the partner play during natural childbirth?

Your partner can provide emotional support and encouragement during labor, which can help you relax. They can also actively participate in breathing techniques and changing positions.

What relaxation methods can help during labor?

Controlled breathing, gentle movements, and massage can help you relax during labor. Hydrotherapy or warm baths can also help reduce physical and emotional tension.

Is natural childbirth safe for women with multiple pregnancies?

Natural birth is possible in multiple pregnancies, but this depends on the position and number of babies. Your gynecologist will recommend the safest option for mother and babies based on each situation.

Can you breastfeed immediately after natural birth?

Yes, the baby is usually placed on the mother's chest immediately after birth. Skin-to-skin contact and immediate breastfeeding help strengthen the emotional bond, and colostrum, the first breast milk, provides the baby with antibodies and essential nutrients.

What role does hydration play during labor?

Adequate hydration keeps your energy levels high and prevents dehydration, helping your uterus contract effectively. Additionally, it's important to stay hydrated to ensure that oxygen and nutrients are properly transported to your baby.

Photo source: Pexels.com