Birth is such an amazing experience. From pregnancy thru labor, every story is unique. Listen in to this episode as I let you in on my birth experience with my son Tripp and how I went from knowing absolutely nothing about pregnancy to exploring all options.
All podcast notes can be found at www.themilitaryworkingmom.com/episode003
Birth is such an amazing experience. From pregnancy thru labor, every story is unique. Listen in to this episode as I let you in on my birth experience with my son Tripp and how I went from knowing absolutely nothing about pregnancy to exploring all options.
1. Educate yourself
You may have a birth plan, but think of it as a birth "wish list." Birth is not something you can control...no matter how much you may want to. It will happen natural, so it is best to take it as it comes. That being said, prepare for all outcomes, that way no matter what life throws at you, you are ready and knowledgeable. Study up on non medicated, medicated and cesarean birth, as any of them can happen without it being in your "plan." Just know that if your birth does not go how you want, you are not a failure, you still gave birth to a tiny human, which is a miracle in itself.
2. Don't compare your pregnancy or your body to any one else
Every pregnancy is different, so inevitably our bodies will all react differently to pregnancy. Some of us may gain 5 pounds, others will gain 100. You may have stretch marks, your friend may not...and the list go on and on. Don't get caught up in comparisons, just enjoy your pregnancy as it will be over soon.
3. Share your birth story
The best way I learned about how to prepare for my birth was through the stories of many many many other women. I asked friends, parents, basically anyone that would tell me their story. Plus I started listening to the Informed Pregnancy Podcast (see below) which has tons of birth stories to prepare me for any type of birth and recovery that I would face.
By sharing our stories, we not only remember them, but help others understand they were not alone in their struggles.
If you have a story or experience you would like to share with the podcast, email me at Andrea@themilitaryworkingmom.com
Recommended Pregnancy Books
-Clinical style: The Mayo Clinic's Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
-All the details about pregnancy: Belly Laughs by Jennifer McCarthy
Recommended Podcasts