How to Prepare for a Natural Birth When Everyone Around You Is Doubting You

Let’s Talk About the Peanut Gallery

You’re glowing, rocking that baby bump, and excitedly sharing your plan for a natural birth. Then it happens: the doubters appear.

“Oh, honey, wait until the contractions hit.”

“Why go through the pain when there’s an epidural?”

“Do you even know what you’re signing up for?”

Cue the eye twitch. Suddenly, your empowering birth vision feels like a solo mission, and you’re surrounded by skeptics handing out unsolicited advice like Costco samples.

Here’s the deal: their doubts are about them, not you. You can absolutely prepare for a natural birth—even if your audience consists of skeptics, critics, and a well-meaning aunt who “just wants what’s best for you.” Stick around, because I’m about to arm you with tools to shut down the naysayers and strengthen your confidence.

Why Everyone’s Doubting You (and Why It Doesn’t Matter)

Let’s be real: people love to doubt what they don’t understand. A natural birth? To them, it sounds like climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops.

But here’s the truth: their doubts are rooted in their own experiences, fears, or lack of knowledge. Maybe they had a tough birth or can’t imagine giving birth without meds. That’s their story—not yours.

Step 1: Get Clear on Your Why

When you know exactly why you’re choosing a natural birth, other people’s opinions won’t shake you. Ask yourself:

• Do I want to feel fully in control of my birth experience?

• Am I drawn to the idea of trusting my body’s natural process?

• Do I want to avoid unnecessary interventions?

Write it down. Say it out loud. Your why is your anchor when the doubters start chiming in.

Step 2: Educate Yourself (So You Can Drop Facts Like a Boss)

One of the best ways to prepare for a natural birth is to become your own expert. When someone hits you with, “Why would you put yourself through that?” you’ll have the confidence to respond with evidence-based answers.

Here’s what to do:

• Take a Natural Birth Class: Learn pain management techniques, positions, and what to expect. Knowledge is your superpower.

• Read Up: Dive into natural birth books that empower and inspire you (Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth is a classic).

• Learn the Benefits: Know why a natural birth can reduce the risk of interventions and promote a smoother recovery.

Now, when someone doubts you, you can smile and say, “Actually, studies show that natural birth often results in fewer complications for low-risk pregnancies.” Mic drop.

Step 3: Find Your Tribe

You need people in your corner who believe in you—full stop. If your current circle isn’t it, go find your people.

• Join Natural Birth Communities: Look for local meetups, online groups, or even Instagram accounts that celebrate unmedicated birth.

• Hire a Doula: They’re basically your birth BFF—full of knowledge, encouragement, and zero judgment.

• Lean on Like-Minded Friends: Got a fellow crunchy mama friend? Stick to her like organic peanut butter on sprouted bread.

Surrounding yourself with positive energy makes it easier to tune out the noise.

Step 4: Practice Advocacy (Because You’ve Got to Own It)

You don’t need to justify your birth choices to anyone, but let’s be honest—people are going to ask. Here’s how to handle it without losing your cool:

• Set Boundaries: “I appreciate your concern, but this is what feels right for me.”

• Keep It Simple: Not everyone deserves an explanation. “Thanks for your input. I’ve got this.”

• Channel Your Inner Beyoncé: Confident, unshakable, and not here for unsolicited opinions.

And remember: your birth choices aren’t up for debate.

Step 5: Build Confidence in Your Body

The more you trust your body, the easier it becomes to ignore the doubters. Here’s how to start:

• Affirmations Are Your Friend: Repeat phrases like, “My body was made to birth my baby.” Yes, it feels cheesy at first, but it works.

• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, visualization, or prenatal yoga can help you feel calm and connected to your body.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Felt a strong kick? Glided through a tough prenatal workout? Remind yourself: I can do hard things.

By the time labor rolls around, you’ll be mentally and physically prepared to crush it.

How to Handle Doubters Without Losing Your Cool

1. Smile and Nod (and Ignore)

Sometimes, the best response is no response at all. Let them talk, then let it roll off your back like water on a birthing ball.

2. Use Humor

“I’m planning a natural birth.”

“Well, I hope you can handle it!”

“Don’t worry—I’ve been practicing my superhero poses for months.”

Humor can defuse the tension and keep things light.

3. Change the Subject

Not in the mood for a debate? Redirect. “Anyway, have you tried that new bakery downtown? I hear their cookies are amazing.”

Final Thoughts: Your Birth, Your Rules

Here’s the bottom line: you don’t need anyone else’s permission, approval, or validation to have the natural birth you want. Preparing for a natural birth when everyone around you is doubting you isn’t about convincing them—it’s about believing in yourself.

So, keep educating yourself, practicing advocacy, and surrounding yourself with support. By the time labor starts, you’ll be too focused on bringing your baby earthside to even remember who doubted you in the first place.

Ready to Feel Confident in Your Birth Plan?

If you’re ready to take your natural birth prep to the next level, check out my online childbirth education course and start building the knowledge and belief you need to succeed.

What’s the most eye-roll-worthy thing someone’s said about your natural birth plans? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear your story!