Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don’t worry, I’ve got you!

Here are 10 things your doctor probably didn’t tell you about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control.

(And hey, if these pique your interest, bring these up to your doctor at the next appointment!) 

1) You don’t have to give birth in the hospital.

Giving birth at home or in a birth center can provide a more relaxed and intimate setting for the birth of your baby. It allows you to have more control over the birthing process and can provide a more personalized experience. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births.

Question for your doctor: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?

2) Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.

Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.

Before having Lake, Caleb and I read this book so that I was able to mentally and physically prepare myself for an unmedicated childbirth: Husband-Coached Childbirth (Fifth Edition): The Bradley Method of Natural Childbirth

Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural? Can you explain the pros and cons of each pain management option and help me create a birth plan that aligns with my preferences?

3) You can bring your own music or sounds to the delivery room.

Music can have a powerful impact on our emotions, and it can help create a calm and soothing environment for you during labor. You can bring your own playlist, a sound machine, or even your own voice to help you relax and focus during labor.

Question for your doctor: Can I bring music to the birthing room?

4) Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor.

Warm water can help ease the pain and discomfort of contractions, and it also allows you to move around more easily, which can help the baby move down the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor.

Question for your doctor: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?

5) Birthing positions – there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process easier.

There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you. When I delivered baby Lake I tried tabletop position, on my knees, on my back, and on my side.  I found that being on my side helped me the most. It’s important to communicate with your doctor or midwife about which positions you prefer, as they can also offer guidance and support during labor.

It’s also worth noting that gravity plays a role in birthing positions. Being upright can help the baby descend more easily, while lying down can make it harder for them to move down the birth canal. So if possible, try to stay upright or change positions frequently throughout labor.

Remember, every woman’s birthing experience is unique and what works for one may not work for another. It’s important to trust your body

Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby? Can I try different birthing positions during labor? Which ones would you recommend based on my individual circumstances?

6) Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth.

A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth.

Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?

7) You can eat and drink during labor, if you want to.

Having a light snack can help keep your energy levels up. It’s important to listen to your body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished.

Question for your doctor: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?

8) The power of the mind – visualization and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.

Visualization and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable.

Question for your doctor: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?

9) Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It’s important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.

Question for your doctor: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections?

So, there you have it, mama. You’re armed with some new information that will hopefully help you feel more confident and excited about your birth!

10) You will probably poop during labor (and that’s okay!).

It’s a normal and natural part of the birthing process, and your nurses and doctors are used to it. So, let’s talk about it.

It may not be the most glamorous part of giving birth, but it’s a reality that many women face during labor – pooping. And guess what? It’s totally okay!

In fact, it’s completely normal and natural for your body to release waste during the birthing process. Your uterus is pushing down and putting pressure on your rectum, which can cause you to poop. But don’t worry, your doctors and nurses are well aware of this and are prepared for it. Some women may feel embarrassed or self-conscious about pooping during labor, but trust me, no one in the delivery room is going to care or judge you for it. They’ve seen it all before!

I hope reading 10 Things Your Doctor Never Told You About Giving Birth has given you some solid ideas on what to expect and what questions to ask your doctor. And, if you’re looking for a Milwaukee, Wisconsin Newborn photographer, click here to see my portfolio of newborn and family photography images.