A “normal” birth is when no surgical procedure is involved. Birth of a woman’s vagina, whether assisted or implanted. “Normal” birth encourages breastfeeding and is good for both mother and baby. However, it is not a shame to require surgery to give birth to a baby if circumstances warrant it. Most importantly, both mother and baby are safe and sound during birth and delivery.
WHAT CAN I DO TO MAKE SURE I DELIVER THE NORMAL DELIVERY?
According to statistics, about 33% of women have a c-section instead of a “normal” birth. If female genital mutilation is important to you, you can increase your chances with these tips.
1. Reduce stress.
The March of Dimes reports that maternal depression is associated with premature birth and low birth weight. Controlling your stress during your pregnancy can help you stay healthy and have a better outcome during childbirth and delivery. Try to avoid situations that make you feel uncomfortable, and stay with people who are friendly and kind. You can also consider meditation or yoga to stay calm and optimistic. You may not be able to avoid all stress, but you can be sure that you are dealing with it in a positive way rather than under pressure.
What is normal delivery? Reduce pressure.
2. Eat healthy.
Giving birth requires a high level of commitment. Healthy eating during pregnancy should be a priority.
Choose foods that are healthy for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and milk.
You want foods that are high in antioxidants and vitamins. Eat colorful rainbows, especially vegetables with dark green leaves, such as kale, spinach, and broccoli. Green berries, papaya, and citrus add a lovely color to your plate.
Include high-fat foods like tofu, broccoli, spinach, and beef.
Reduce your sugar intake altogether.
Avoid foods that your doctor recommends. Meat, other seafood, and street foods are often recommended to avoid during pregnancy.
In addition to eating well, take vitamins before giving birth to make sure your body gets the extra nutrients your body and the growing baby need.
What A Normal Delivery: Eat Healthy
3. Exercise regularly.
Exercise is important for the rest of your life, but during pregnancy, exercise offers additional benefits. First, it increases your strength, allowing you to stay strong during childbirth and delivery. Exercise keeps your muscles soft to allow you to bear the pain of childbirth. Strong thigh and pelvic muscles help during childbirth and delivery, too. Walking during pregnancy also helps keep the baby in good condition. You do not need to run a marathon. Do the things you love. Dance, walk in the pool, play golf—just check with your healthcare provider about any restrictions to make sure you stay safe.
What a Regular Delivery: Exercise Regularly
4. Educate yourself about fertility.
Knowledge is power, so you should keep researching. Read books that tell you what to expect during pregnancy and childbirth, read a maternity class, and talk to other women you trust for ideas on what they are going through. However, try to avoid shocking news about childbirth. You will also want to talk to your doctor about your concerns instead of letting them grow. When you start to get frustrated, it may mean that you have too much information. Slow down and consider what you are reading before spending more time.
What a Normal Delivery: Educate yourself
5. Get enough sleep.
Millions of Americans do not get enough sleep. During pregnancy, it may be even more difficult to get enough sleep to keep your body from getting tired. According to SleepFoundation.org, women are more likely to have sleep disorders that are worse for their pregnancy. Find ways to deal with sleep problems to make sure your body gets enough rest.
Lying on the left side with a pillow between your knees and one below your abdomen can take the pressure off your lower back.
If you have to get up at night to use the bathroom, try to do as little as possible to awaken your mind and body. Use a nightlight instead of a light bulb. Do not look at your phone.
Eat small meals throughout the day and avoid spicy foods in the evening to prevent heartburn.
If you can’t sleep, get up and do something relaxing instead of trying to force it. Reading a book, crocheting, or taking a warm bath may help you relax.
Disconnect your phone about an hour before bedtime. Electronic devices can move, making it difficult to sleep.
6. Create a support program.
Your partner and you should be on the same page about “normal” births. Choose people who will be with you during childbirth and who support your decision about “normal” childbirth. You may want to rent a doula, a personal representative at birth. Your doula can also help you stay calm during childbirth.
What is Standard Delivery? Create a Support Program.
7. Talk to Your Health Care Team
Make sure your provider knows you can prefer “regular” delivery. If you and your doctor are on the same page, you are more likely to work together to find solutions that fit your needs. Talk to your doctor about their views on “normal” births, and check their “normal” birth rates in Section C.
8. Stay waterless.
Water is important for your baby’s growth, so it is important that you drink enough water during your pregnancy and labor. The American Pregnancy Association recommends 8 to 12 glasses of water a day. You may also want to reduce your caffeinated diet because caffeine acts as a diuretic, causing you to urinate more often. Try to avoid strenuous exercise and extreme heat, as these can cause excessive sweating. If you sweat a lot, drink plenty of water.
What a Normal Delivery: Stay Waterless
PREPARING FOR YOUR SUBMISSION
Your pregnancy should be a time of surprise and fear as you look forward to the birth of your own bunch of joy. Taking care of yourself during pregnancy will help you during childbirth and delivery, no matter which path you take. It will also help you after delivery as your body recovers from the stress of carrying an extra body. Follow your doctor’s instructions and do all you can to maintain your health.
