Labor is a unique and special experience. For some people, it only takes a few hours or less. For others, long labor may challenge their physical and emotional strength. You will not know how labor and childbirth will proceed until it happens. However, you may prepare by learning the sequence of events that generally occur during labor and delivery. From exercise to water therapy, read our guide to what works (and what doesn't) when it comes to preparing for and navigating labor.
Many long months of preparation and pregnancy culminate in labor and delivery. You might be wondering how to have the smoothest labor and delivery experience after all that preparation. These helpful and effective tips will help you in experiencing little smoother labor, making you feel more empowered, relaxed, and comfortable.
Read Also: Premature Birth: Causes, Treatments & Prevention – What You Should Know
What is a Normal Delivery?
A normal delivery or vaginal delivery is the process of giving childbirth through vagina. It is the most common approach. A vaginal birth takes place when the uterine cavity contracts to narrow down and open your cervix, allowing your baby to exit through your vagina (or birth canal). Vaginal deliveries are preferred by doctors since it's generally the safest way for both the fetus and the mother. Vaginal delivery most commonly happens between weeks 37 and 42 of pregnancy.
The first stage of labor starts with uterine contractions and results in dilation of your cervix up to 10 centimetres, labor happens in following phases: early labor, active labor, and transitional labor. The first stage of labor starts with uterine contractions and results in dilation of your cervix up to 10 centimetres. Labor happens in following phases: early labor, active labor, and transitional labor.
- Early labor: Contractions commence, and your cervix begins to open (dilate) and thin (efface). Your cervix may be about 5 centimetres dilated at the end of early labor.
- Active labor: This stage of labor is characterised by intense contractions lasting up to one minute and occurring approximately three minutes apart. Contractions can be uncomfortable, thus some people want an epidural during this time. To speed up labor, your obstetrician may also provide oxytocin preparation.
- Transitional labor: This is immediately before your cervix dilates to 10 centimetres. It's a brief but an intense period in which your contractions happen quickly and last more than a minute. This phase may cause you to sweat, vomit, or feel shaky. It occurs shortly before you begin to push.
Read Also: Prenatal Care Tips Every Expecting Parent Should Follow
What are Tips for a Smooth Normal Delivery?
Following tips can help you in experiencing smooth normal delivery:
- Seek preconception advice from your gynaecologist. Try to conceive at the appropriate weight and age.
- Refrain from gaining excess weight during pregnancy.
- Maintain a balanced diet during pregnancy to better withstand the rigours of delivery. Avoid fatty, fried, junk food, and processed sweets. Avoid smoking and alcohol altogether.
- Walk at least 45 minutes per day and practice the exercises recommended by your doctor.
- Stay active during your pregnancy to increase stamina and physical endurance.
- Relaxation activities such as butterfly, bridging, partial and total squats, and cat and camel exercises can help strengthen your pelvis and thighs.
- The fetal position is essential to the birth process. If the baby is not properly positioned, vaginal birth may become difficult or impossible. By week 32, the baby should be in the head-down position. If the baby is not in the correct position, fetal positioning sessions may be essential.
- Attend all prenatal appointments and testing as scheduled.
- Avoid obtaining too much information from the internet. Instead, ask all questions and concerns with your doctor.
- Maintain a positive attitude. Negative/overthinking will disrupt vaginal birth plans. Surround yourself with people who will help you stay positive and joyful.
- 'Lamaze', a popular childbirth preparation program, teaches labor and delivery coping mechanisms. It emphasises rhythmic breathing exercises and massages to alleviate labor pains and promotes spontaneous, non-induced labor with minimal interventions.
- Stay active throughout labor and have a birthing partner or loved one to help you throughout the process.
- Push when you feel pressure. Stay with your baby after birth to foster bonding, and start breastfeeding as recommended by your doctor.
Read Also: Neonatal Care Tips for New Parents: What to Expect in the NICU?
Best Hospital for Normal Delivery in Jaipur
To ensure a safe and smooth normal delivery in Jaipur, select a hospital that provides expert obstetricians, well-equipped labor rooms, advanced neonatal care, and a supportive environment for expectant moms. The best maternity hospital should prioritise natural childbirth, offer personalised prenatal and postnatal care, and have 24-hour emergency assistance. Checking patient reviews, discussing with doctors, and visiting a hospital can all help you make an informed decision. Choosing a hospital with a high success rate in normal deliveries and a mother-friendly environment can improve the entire childbirth experience.
Cocoon Hospital has been a go-to destination for women and children in Jaipur for the past 12 years, providing outstanding treatment with unparalleled expertise.
Read Also: Importance of Antenatal Care
Conclusion
Giving birth is a thrilling and life-changing event. Every pregnancy, labor, and birth is a unique journey. The most common method for giving birth is vaginal delivery. It's difficult to know what to expect until you've gone through it, but speaking with your doctor and asking questions can help you prepare. Vaginal deliveries are typically low-risk and very successful. Your doctor is prepared to handle any issues that arise and assist you in welcoming a healthy baby into the world.
You can try to prepare by making a birth plan, but you can't predict what will happen when the time arrives. It may be beneficial to discuss your preferences with your partner, family, friends, and obstetrician.
Prepare for a smooth normal delivery with essential tips and guidance from our expert gynecologists at Cocoon Hospital. To learn how to get ready for childbirth to ensure a luxury birthing experience, book your appointment now!
FAQs
Q1: How can I prepare for a normal delivery?
A: Regular exercise, prenatal yoga, and Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic muscles. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and maintaining an active lifestyle also contribute to a smooth labor.
Q2: What foods should I eat for a healthy pregnancy and normal delivery?
A: Include protein-rich foods, whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables in your diet. Foods rich in iron, calcium, and folic acid are essential. Avoid processed and junk food to maintain optimal health.
Q3: How important is breathing during labor?
A: Controlled breathing techniques, such as deep breathing and Lamaze breathing, help manage pain, reduce stress, and improve oxygen supply to the baby, making labor more manageable.
