Childbirth is such an incredible experience, yet there is much controversy surrounding labor and delivery options for expecting moms. Should a pregnant woman choose an OB/GYN or a midwife? What about delivering at a hospital or even having a home birth? Although medicine saves many lives, many feel that medical interventions have become too mainstream, thereby making childbirth feel like some women to be more of a medical procedure than a natural process. 

Women choose to give birth naturally for a variety of reasons, such increased safety for mom and baby, easier transition to breastfeeding, and personal empowerment. Studies show that natural birth often results in a shorter labor with less interventions, as well as increased alertness for baby. If your goal is to have a natural childbirth, it’s best to prepare yourself. Here are five natural birth essentials for laboring moms that will help you reach your goals and heal more comfortably. In case you missed it check out our post on Natural Pain Relief during labor for some more tips.:

[bctt tweet=”A woman’s body was meant to give birth naturally, but we need to be prepared” username=”ecocentricmom”]

Natural Birth Resources

If you opt for a natural birth, it’s beneficial to educate yourself on the various methods for coping with pain during labor. This includes books and natural birthing classes – we love Ina May’s Guide To Childbirth and Hypnobabies, to name a few. You will also need to decide where you want to deliver, such as in a birth center or hospital, as well as which clinicians you want present to assist you. 

The CDC reports, “more than three out of five women (63.4 percent) whose births were attended by a medical doctor or a doctor of osteopathic medicine (62.5 percent) received epidural/spinal anesthesia compared with less than one in two women attended by a certified nurse midwife (49.8 percent).” The takeaway message from this statistic is that you can still deliver your baby naturally in a hospital setting. Just make sure you have a birth plan so your clinicians are aware of your needs. I gave birth in a hospital, and my team was very excited to be working with someone who desired a natural birth because they aren’t as common in the hospital setting. 

Consider hiring a labor coach, also known as a doula. A doula will have experience and tips to help, but your partner can be a great coach as long he or she knows your goals and can serve as a strong advocate for you.  

Hot / Cold Pack

The Grainbow Lavender Hot Pack is a must-have natural birth essential for laboring moms, especially during contractions. It will provide excellent relief to your aching lower back. This hot pack is also made with high quality lavender for a wonderful, calming scent that promotes a peaceful labor and delivery. You can also use this hot pack during pregnancy to provide much-needed relief from your pregnancy aches and pains. My son thought my ribs were a good place to rest his feet, so I constantly had a hot pack on there – just be sure to keep a barrier between the hot pack and your skin.

Stability Ball

A stability ball or birthing ball is a natural birth essential for laboring moms. One benefit of a natural labor is that you are able to move freely. Using a stability ball is an excellent tool to help you find comfortable positions during labor, such as squatting. Many women also find comfort from rocking back and forth on the stability ball. Doing so can also help you open up your birth canal and take strain off of your legs.

New Mama Bottom Spray

The New Mama Bottom Spray by Earth Mama Angel Baby is a cooling, soothing perineal mist. It helps ease discomfort on pregnant bottoms, as well as relieve postpartum vaginal soreness and swelling, episiotomies, and hemorrhoids. This is your best friend after delivery! It is formulated with safe and natural herbal ingredients, including astringent witch hazel, antibacterial lavender, and cooling peppermint pure essential oils. Bonus tip: pack it in your hospital bag!

Mama Bottom Balm

The Mama Bottom Balm by Earth Mama Angel Baby in addition to the New Mama Bottom Spray gives even more soothing comfort. Natural childbirth is amazing, but it still takes a toll on your body. There is no need to make any DIY freezer packs when you have this. Just place this balm in the refrigerator, and it will provide all the soothing comfort you need.

Natural childbirth can be a challenge, but entering labor with full preparation is key and will give you a boost of confidence. If your goal is to have a natural childbirth, you can absolutely attain it. These five essentials will help you achieve your natural labor and delivery, as well as help you heal.

Have you used any of these products? Which was your favorite?