8 positive ways to prepare for giving birth

Lots of mums-to-be can feel nervous about giving birth. The good news is, there are several steps you can make to prepare your mind for labour and reduce your anxiety.

Line up some help for after birth

In those first postpartum weeks, an extra pair of hands can make all the difference.

If you’re fortunate enough to have relatives who can help, have a chat before you give birth to discuss how they can assist. Everyone will want to take care of the baby but more often than not, the best help involves laundry, shopping, cooking and cleaning.

Breastfeeding can also be a challenge. According to Public Health England, Only 4 our of 10 of mums are still breastfeeding at six weeks. This is despite the NHS stating that breastfeeding provides health benefits to mothers and babies and the World Health Organization recommending that babies should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their life. Barriers to successful feeding can include difficulties latching, sore nipples and incorrect positioning. I offer support to mums who want to kick-start their breastfeeding relationship with their new baby.

Create a (flexible) birth plan

No matter how prepared we are, it is unlikely that giving birth will go exactly as we imagine in our mind. The process of building a birth plan gives mums-to-be the chance to visualise different scenarios. 

If you’re feeling a bit anxious about giving birth, there are things you can do that may help. Here’s some helpful advice from mums who’ve been there.Having a birth plan can be a useful way to quickly communicate your wishes and make decisions during labour. A birth plan can be especially useful when you’re in no position to discuss with your midwife or if there is a change of staff. 

Speak with your partner

Communication between you and your partner is especially important during the first few weeks after giving birth. By understanding what you both how you can help each other and having aligned expectations, you can avoid conflict in what can be a stressful few weeks.

Don't assume that your partner understands just how much your new baby will change your lives. It can be worth taking the time to discuss how you’ll split the baby and household jobs. Also, consider discussing how your partner can support you in breastfeeding.

Practice relaxed breath

Deep breathing has a whole host of benefits. It can make you feel more relaxed, reduce your heart rate and blood pressure, and help you get more oxygen with each breath. 

During labour, it can also provide a sense of control and help manage the pain of contractions.

Practising deep breathing techniques throughout your pregnancy will ensure you’re comfortable using it when labour starts.

Develop a positive state of mind

A positive attitude can make all the difference during labour. Hypnobirthing is a practice that teaches simple breathing and visualisation in order to induce relaxation. 

It’s also important to avoid anyone unhelpful enough to share pregnancy horror stories. If any of these people enter your orbit, just remember that for every bad experience, there are a dozen mums out there with a positive story to tell.

Chat with other mums

Unfortunately, society still deems several birthing topics to be taboo. As such information on issues such as baby blues, leaking pee, lack of sex drive and difficulties breastfeeding can be hard to find.

Don't be shy to approach other mums. Though you will not share the exact the same experience, getting the real deal from other mums can help remind that you are not alone. 

Consider finding a mums meet-up group local to you.

Pack your bags

When your water breaks, the last thing you'll want to worry about is whether or not you have a toothbrush packed.

During this calm period, take some time to build a list for items you'll want to take to the hospital or birthing centre and have them prepared in a bag near the door.

Essentials will be important but also consider personal items that can help you feel at home - such as a pair of comfortable slippers.

Stock Up

It is a good idea to stock up on household essentials so you can avoid unnecessary trips to the shops after giving birth. Have cupboards already full with canned food, toiletries, toilet paper and shower gel can be very useful when you bring your baby home.