How Do You Want Your Birth? Questions To Ask For The Birth Of Your Baby

With all the excitement, emotions, and pain you are going through or have gone through with pregnancy the actual birth sometimes gets pushed aside in your mind. Sometimes birth is the one aspect of pregnancy and having a baby that you can’t get out of your mind! Either way it is important to think about what you want for your birth, keeping in mind that things do not always go as planned (see my post on A Delivery That Didn't Go As Planned

A question that you may want to answer right away is what kind of provider is going to work best for you whether it be a physician, a midwife, or whether you will want to do the birth unassisted or with the help of only a doula present. A physician is probably one of the most common providers, and many women feel safer with a physician because of their immediate access to help if something were to go wrong. Some women want that access while having a more hands off birth with a midwife who will allow them to labor without as much medical intervention. Others prefer the privacy of a home birth that may or may not be assisted. Whatever you choose, this is a big decision for both you and your partner.

Another thing to think about is how much intervention you want. Are you dead set on doing a medication free birth? Or are you convinced you want an epidural as a pain relief option? This is a personal decision, and whatever you choose remember that no one knows what is best for you, but you. If you want to go medication free, don't let anyone tell you differently.

Choosing who you want present at the birth is also a big deal. Some women prefer a private birth with only her partner, and some women like to be surrounded by friends and family to help encourage and support.

For my first birth I was convinced I wanted only my husband present. With my second child I am more open to seeing how I feel and possibly allowing more friends and family to be present if I can achieve the VBAC I desire. Let the people around you know your plans so no one is confused or hurt. It could make for an uncomfortable experience later if it isn't discussed early on. Even if you want to wait and see how you feel, let others know.
Think about what you want to happen after the baby is born. Do you want your partner to call family and friends right away? Will you allow friends and family to be in a waiting area while you deliver, or do you prefer they wait at home until you call them? Is there anyone you absolutely do not want to show up?

These are just a few things to keep in mind when thinking about the birth of your child /children. Of course remember that you are allowed to change your mind at any time and no one should give you grief about it.

Sara