Mamas who have given birth, what tips do you have for those who are pregnant?

I didn't mentally prepare in advance for my unmedicated labor with no gas or IVS, I also gave birth on all fours the body gravitates towards that direction and it's easier to push. Baby might come fast! My last labor was only 2 hours about.

I arrived to the clinic (I had her at a birth center in a bath tub) @ 7:30am & she was born at 8am. Honestly, I’m a fearless girl, and I HIGHLY recommend it for labor

Id say know your pain tolerance on whether you need epidural or not. I could not stand the beginning contractions and they just get worse as time goes by so I asked for epidural as soon as I got to the hospital. Another thing, don't let them tell you what position to be in when giving birth. I was on my back and it was excruciating pain I couldn't even push, then I forced myself on my side and was able to relieve pressure off my back and push good in the position. Remember, you run the show they are just there to watch. I'd also say have a midwife deliver bc they are less inclined to force you to do something you don't want to unlike a doctor who will say "they know best".

I recommend having a support person!! Whether that’s a doula, husband, or friend. This helped me immensely, as I had my husband learn the Bradley course with me so he could learn how to support me with postures and such. Otherwise learning to breathe into the contractions - which was much harder for me than I imagined! Was imperative too. So learning (and teaching) relaxation techniques and having a really great support person!!

Oh also! Remember you have the right to decline ANYTHING. And make your birth plan for all circumstances just in case. I planned a home birth but created back up plans for hospital and emergency c section. I ended up transferring to the hospital after 36 hours of back labor. And they (mostly) respected each item on my very simple icon format birth plan.

@Claire Thanks for sharing some great tips and yes, support is super important. Having someone to advocate and hold space for you 🥰 xx

@Brianna Thanks lovely! Knowing your options beforehand is really empowering and so doing a birth prep course can help you make informed decisions on things such as pain relief and procedures, etc. Your instincts are also so powerful and having confidence to lean into what feels right for you is key (like you say, birth positions) ❤️ xx