Childbirth is one of the most important moments in a woman's life. It is a unique, irreplaceable experience, often very challenging and painful. However, it doesn't always have to be that way.
The female body is naturally designed for childbirth; it "knows how to do it." Trust in those who assist us during this process, as well as our self-confidence, are crucial.
How to Prepare for Childbirth
The course of childbirth depends not only on the hospital but also on us. Although women are often unaware, they can do a lot to ensure that the birth of their child is not only significant and unique but also a beautiful experience. Physical preparation, a positive mindset, and awareness of what to expect during childbirth are the ideal combination for an easier delivery.
Effective prenatal preparation can significantly influence the outcome of childbirth. It increases the likelihood of a natural delivery and also improves the psychological state of the mother. It is essential to learn as much as possible about childbirth, and equally important is the belief that everything will turn out well.
Every woman can choose different ways to prepare, such as prenatal yoga, hypnobirthing techniques, etc. Generally, it is not advisable to start something new during pregnancy. So, if you have never practiced yoga, it is questionable whether prenatal yoga will be suitable for you and your body. It is best to continue with activities that your body is accustomed to, perhaps with different intensity or form.
How prepared you are for childbirth has a decisive impact on its course. Women who have learned to work with their pelvic floor as part of their preparation and have become familiar with their bodies tend to fear childbirth less. Self-confidence for childbirth is very important.
Practical Preparation for Childbirth
Methods for preparing for childbirth include correctly performed perineal massage or using suitable tools. We recommend Aniball—a medical device that works on the simple principle of manually inflating a silicone balloon with a pump. It allows a woman to understand her body, try out birthing positions, and relax the pelvic floor muscles with the help of breath, thereby better preparing for childbirth.
Aniball not only aids in preparing the birth canal but also has psychological benefits—during childbirth, a woman is less startled by sensations she already knows. She knows "how to do it." The actual expulsion phase becomes easier, minimizing the risk of tearing or episiotomy, which is important for the mother's comfort immediately after childbirth and later in life. This is particularly crucial given the long list of potential problems mothers may face after an episiotomy. Common consequences include pain, discomfort, infections, and inflammation. Moreover, this procedure can lead to permanent weakening of the pelvic floor muscles, a frequent cause of incontinence, and can significantly affect the delayed ability to engage in sexual activity. A scar from an episiotomy is a scar not just on the body but also on the soul.
Prenatal Classes?
Long-term preparation for childbirth for a pregnant woman also involves attending prenatal classes. Here, the mother should receive all the essential information about childbirth (how to recognize the start of labor, when to go to the hospital, the admission process, the course of labor, the stay in the hospital, baby care basics, a list of items to take to the hospital, etc.).
However, classes can vary greatly, so it’s important to choose wisely. The instructor's experience and enthusiasm for the topic are very important. You might think that a lot of theory isn't necessary, as women know how to give birth and, with experts around, who just create suitable conditions, there shouldn't be much to discuss.
However, this is not always the case in hospitals. Staff in hospitals often change, sometimes even during labor. Many things adapt to whoever is on duty and their experience. There are also many operational circumstances to consider. It is not an ideal environment, even though it meets safety standards for the life of the mother and child.
Childbirth is a very intimate moment that requires an intimate setting—dim lighting, people you trust, and peace.
Quality prenatal preparation should therefore contain all the necessary information about the course of childbirth, but also much more. For example, a list of practical items and tools for childbirth, preparation for the partner, information about pain relief techniques during labor (massage, water, aromatherapy, etc.), your options, and a comparison of options in individual hospitals, the importance of bonding, the advantages of having support during childbirth—whether from a partner, doula, or experienced midwife.
We also definitely recommend visiting the chosen hospital and birthing rooms. A pregnant woman should have an idea of the environment in which she will give birth and trust in this environment and its staff. Careful prenatal preparation mobilizes the future mother's readyness and intuition.
