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Preparing Your Mind & Body for Birth; Top 10 Recommendations From A Doula
Updated: Jul 28, 2020
As new parents, we spend so much time preparing for baby by purchasing the newest and greatest baby item, the cutest crib sheets and curtains for the nursery, the best bottle system or breast pump, and so much more. This is all great and certainly makes the pregnancy journey enjoyable, exciting and fulfilling, but it does not always translate into preparing your mind and body for the last few weeks of pregnancy, your birth, and your postpartum. As much as we prepare for baby, we need to prepare for birth. It is a grand workout, an absolutely life changing experience, and one that is necessary to prepare for. You would not hike Mt. Everest without mentally, emotionally, and physically training/preparing, so why would you go into your birth without preparing?
I am so excited to talk with you about a some things that I think are important for preparation, as a doula who regularly sees clients in and outside of the home, and as a mom who has had three births of my own.
Here is a list of 10 things you can do to prepare your mind and body for the birth of your baby. You can do one or all of these things, but my hope is that in doing at least one, you will be further ready your mind, body, and soul.
1. Receive Chiropractic Care - Webster Certified Practice or Provider
From the moment of conception, your body goes through a series of changes. Back, pelvic and postural changes can cause unwanted pain, discomfort, sciatica, and so much more. The good news is chiropractic care is a safe and effective treatment for most people. Toward the end of your pregnancy, slight adjustments from a Webster Certified chiropractor will provide more room for baby, help baby get into better positions, help your pelvis stay aligned, and can even help in turning a breech baby! Pictured above are Drs. Cepeda and Landrus of Growing Tree Chiropractic in Mooresville, NC. Dr. Landrus regularly adjusted Dr. Cepeda throughout her pregnancy and she ended up having a wonderful birthing experience. While results are not guaranteed, all my clients note that they feel healthier, stronger, and more ready for baby after an adjustment.
2. Take a Childbirth Education Class
Childbirth education is a must. There are so many different classes, one to fit every single family out there. These classes go into great detail about almost everything there is to know about birth, different procedures, informed consent, how to relax, and so many other important topics. I really want you to know that knowledge is power and the more you know, the less you will fear. I highly recommend taking Hypnobirthing with Rebecca at Mindful Family Wellness in Mooresville, NC. Due to COVID-19, her classes are all virtual, so no matter where you're located, check her out! There are also Lamaze, Bradley,