Building a Birth Dream Team
Having a baby is a big freakin’ deal. For women desiring a natural birth, having a supportive and well-prepared birth dream team can make all the difference! This blog will help you understand the importance of a birth dream team and how to create one that aligns with your birth philosophy.
Before assembling your team, it's crucial to understand your birth philosophy. What does birth mean to you? Are there specific methods or practices you want to incorporate? Defining these aspects will guide you in choosing team members who support and respect your vision.
Once your philosophy is clear, communicate it effectively. Your birth plan is a detailed outline of your preferences and expectations during labor and delivery. Ensure every team member understands and respects your wishes! If they don’t support you in every single choice/wish you have, kick ‘em to the curb and find someone new. 🤷♀️
First you’ll have to choose your provider… download the free list of questions to ask your provider, so you know you’re on the same page!
Midwives
Midwives are trained professionals specializing in natural childbirth. They provide medical care, support, and guidance throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Midwives focus on minimal intervention, promoting a natural and empowering birth experience.
Choosing a midwife involves considering their experience, approach to birth, and compatibility with your preferences. Schedule interviews, ask about their practices, and ensure they align with your birth philosophy.
Doulas
Doulas are non-medical professionals offering emotional and physical support during labor. They provide continuous presence, comfort measures, and advocacy, helping you stay calm and focused.
Look for a doula with experience in whatever birth you want to have! Personal recommendations, interviews, and compatibility with your personality and needs are essential factors to consider. Don’t be afraid to interview many.
Obstetricians
Obstetricians bring medical expertise, particularly for high-risk situations. They monitor your health and the baby's, usually with more interventions than a midwife. It's important to find an obstetrician who supports natural birth practices (most have never even SEEN a physiological birth..)
When selecting an obstetrician, discuss your birth plan. Choose someone open to your preferences and willing to collaborate with other team members, like midwives and doulas. If they don’t support you, again, peace out! Find someone new.
Additional Support Members
Birth Partners
Your birth partner, often the baby's other parent, plays a significant role. They provide emotional support, physical comfort, and advocacy, helping you stay focused and positive.
Prepare your partner through childbirth classes, discussions, and shared research. Make sure they understand your birth plan and feel confident in their supportive role. Doulas can help prep partners, too!
Family and Friends
Deciding whether to include family and friends is personal. Consider their ability to provide support without adding stress or pressure.
If you include loved ones, set clear boundaries and expectations. Make sure they understand your birth plan and, as with everyone else, respect your choices. If they aren’t supportive, you don’t want them and their negative energy in your birth space! ✌
Preparing for Your Dream Birth
Birth Classes and Workshops
Childbirth classes and workshops provide valuable knowledge about natural birth. They teach techniques for managing pain, relaxation, and what to expect during labor.
Creating a Birth Plan
Document your birth preferences, including pain management, labor positions, and any specific practices you wish to follow. This written plan serves as a guide for your team. And then, review your birth plan with each team member. Ensure they understand and agree to support your choices, making adjustments as needed.
The Birth Environment
You have so many options when it comes to where you can give birth. Here’s a quick overview!
Home Birth
For those comfortable with a home birth, it offers a familiar and intimate setting. They are so safe and oftentimes women just don’t know that this is an option. Look into it, friend!
Birth Centers
Birth centers provide a home-like environment with medical facilities. They balance the comfort of home and the feeling of safety in a medical setting.
Hospitals
Hospitals offer the highest level of medical care. Choose one that supports natural birth and allows for midwives and doulas!
Making Your Birth Space Comfortable
Lighting and Ambiance
Create a calming environment with dim lighting, soothing music, and aromatherapy. Comfort is key to a positive birth experience. Make sure you have a space to go to and just be. Have a labor playlist, some essential oils maybe, and fairy lights. Make it peaceful!
Advocating for Your Birth Choices
Be confident in your birth choices. Your team should support you, but it's important to advocate for yourself if necessary. However, the goal is to have an incredible team so that you don’t have to advocate for yourself… download the free list of questions to ask your provider, so you know you’re on the same page!
Post-Birth Support
Immediate Post-Birth Care
You’re gonna want to make sure your team also provides immediate care and support after birth. This includes breastfeeding assistance, bonding time, and addressing any other needs/desires! Maybe this is a postpartum doula, a friend, or a family member. I always suggest that mamas have a list of support people on hand in their area - chiropractors, lactation consultants, pelvic floor therapists, mental health providers, etc.!
Conclusion
So, friends, creating a birth dream team tailored to your birth preferences empowers you to take charge of your birth experience. With the right support, knowledge, and preparation, you can achieve a fulfilling and empowering birth of your dreams!! 🥰
In case you missed it - Here’s the list of questions to ask your provider so that you know you’re on the same page!
Links:
Curious about my doula support? Find out more here!
Free list of questions to ask any provider
Here are some free affirmation cards!
I just launched a new podcast called The Birth & Baby Podcast, check it out here! 😎
