How to take back control of your birth: 6 top tips
The question I hear time and time again is, “How can I be in control of my birth?” Whether it’s people who attend my free taster sessions, people in Facebook groups or clients starting their Hypnobirthing journey, it’s very common to worry about losing control during labour.
We assume that birth has to be something terrifying and traumatic because of what we see on TV and the stories we hear about it. When I was pregnant I spent weeks worrying about how on earth I was going to cope with labour. I was also anxious about losing my autonomy, of having things done to me without knowing what was happening. Given all the negative things we hear and see about birth, it’s easy to just resign ourselves to our fate…thinking it’s going to be awful and we’ll just have to deal with it. Sound familiar?
But, it doesn’t have to be awful and you don’t have to automatically hand over your autonomy! There are some really practical things you can do to take back control of your birth experience. After all, you deserve to feel awesome about the day your baby is born.
So here are my 6 top tips to help you take back control of your pregnancy and birth…
1. Use your BRAINS.
Ask about the Benefits, Risks & Alternatives of any procedure or recommendation. What does your Instinct tell you? What would happen if you did Nothing? What’s the Scientific research behind the recommendation? Once you have this, you can make the informed decision that is right for YOU, instead of going along with something that might not feel right.
2. Write everything down.
Going to antenatal appointments alone? Bring a notepad and jot down everything that is discussed and agreed. Prepare for the appointment by writing any questions or concerns you have, so you’ll remember to ask. That way you’ll feel confident you’ve ticked everything off your list.
3. Don’t feel the pressure to commit to something you’re not sure about.
Sometimes when we’re presented with the unexpected it can be easy for us to just go along with the suggestion. You might want to do some extra research, use your BRAINS or talk it over with your birth partner first and it’s perfectly ok to take some time for this.
4. You can absolutely say NO to anything you don’t feel comfortable with.
Don’t fancy a vaginal examination…don’t have one! Being pressured into an induction you don’t want…remember it’s your choice! It’s your body and your baby. This isn’t about being antagonistic towards medical professionals, it’s about making decisions that feel right for you. Informed consent matters, end of.
5. Do your research.
Knowledge is power! Understand your rights and your options (yes you have options!) Learn how your body works, so that you know what to expect. Take an antenatal class and get informed.
Think about what’s important to you & plan your ideal birth scenario, but also think about what you would do if that plan needed to change. If you’ve covered all your bases you’ll feel much more in control.
Want to know more ways to take back control of your birth? Then why not join one of my Hypnobirthing courses. If you’re still not sure Hypnobirthing is for you, I run regular free taster sessions and offer a free 15-minute phone or Zoom chat.
Hypnobirthing nerd. Tea obsessed. On a mission to help you feel informed, supported, and respected so you can boss your birth…however it happens.
