Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don’t worry, I’ve got you!

Here are 10 things your doctor probably didn’t tell you about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control coming from a mama of two and a Pittsburgh, PA Maternity Photographer

(And hey, if these pique your interest, bring these up to your doctor at the next appointment!) 

1-You don’t have to give birth in the hospital.

Choosing to give birth at home or in a birth center lets you create a more relaxed and intimate setting for your baby’s arrival. Mothers with low-risk pregnancies often find this option safe and experience similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births.

To be completely transparent here, I never ever thought that giving birth at home or in a birth center was a good option, until recently.  I have talked to so many moms that have said that giving birth in a birth center was amazing.  BUT, this only works if you are a low-risk pregnancy (which I was not, so this wasn’t even an option for me).  But if you are interested in more information, talk to your doctor or visit:  The Midwife Center | Pittsburgh, PA on Penn Ave for more info. 

Question for your doctor: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?

2-You will probably poop during labor (and that’s okay!).

Pooping during labor is totally normal and happens to many women. Nurses and doctors expect it and won’t even mention it to you. Don’t let this concern hold you back—pushing out a baby already feels like you’re pooping anyway!   

3-Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.

Epidurals provide a common form of pain relief during labor, but you can explore other available options. You can choose other forms of pain relief, such as nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, or natural methods like hypnobirthing, acupuncture, and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.

I had epidurals with both of my births, and there is NOTHING wrong with that.  My first experience wasn’t great but my second was amazing.  But there are options for other methods (I didn’t know that until doing research about it now).

Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural? 

4-You can bring your own music or sounds to the delivery room.

Music can have a powerful impact on our emotions. It can help create a calm and soothing environment for you during labor. You can bring your own playlist, a sound machine, or even your own voice to help you relax and focus during labor.

Question for your doctor: Can I bring music to the birthing room? 

5-Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor.

Soaking in warm water eases contraction pain and discomfort, lets you move around more freely, and helps your baby descend in the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor.

A birthing pool would only work if you are having a natural birth and no epidural but thinking back, it would have been nice to soak in the tub during my contractions.

Question for your doctor: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?

6-Birthing positions – there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process easier.

There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.

Since I had an epidural, I stayed in the most common position, but if you don’t need one, other positions could make a big difference.

Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?

7-Doulas offer amazing support beyond just birth

Doulas provide emotional and physical support throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. They help with relaxation techniques, advocate for your wishes, and offer comfort when you need it most.

Honestly I wish that I knew more about what doulas do before having my babies, I think i would have worked with one.  If you are interested in learning more about what doula does and the services they can provide, visit: Golden Lotus Doulas of Pittsburgh, PA 

Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?

8-You can eat and drink during labor, if you want to.

Eating a light snack can help maintain your energy, and staying hydrated is crucial. Listen to your body and healthcare provider for guidance.

Once I got my epidural, I couldn’t eat anymore. During my first birth, I didn’t mind because the pain distracted me. But for my second, the epidural worked great, and I was hungry! I settled for lots of ice chips.

Question for your doctor: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?

9-The power of the mind – visualization and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.

Visualization and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable.

Question for the doctor: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?

10-Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It’s important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.

Question for the doctor: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections? 

So, there you have it, mama. I hope reading; 10 Things That The Doctor May Have Not Told You | Pittsburgh, PA Maternity Photographer gave you some new information that will hopefully help you feel more confident and excited about your birth!

If you’re still looking for a Pittsburgh, PA Maternity Photographer, click here to see my portfolio of Maternity images.