Im pregnant with my first and ever since I can remember thinking about being pregnant I have always wanted a natural birth but I’m overwhelmed!

I had my first (and soon to be second) at a birth center and it was great. All the perks of home birth without it being in your own house if that doesn’t work for you.

I would recommend taking a childbirth class at some point during pregnancy. Knowing what actually happens to your body during labor and birth is key in understanding what you’re signing up for.

I also recommend taking up meditation or yoga - anything with breathework. Natural childbirth is a mental game and you have to be able to calm your mind when you’re in pain and relax your body.

You also have a lot of time to find a doula at this point. We didn’t hire ours until well into 2nd tri and it was totally fine. Focus on finding your birth center/midwives first!

I can’t recommend the Pain Free Birth podcast more! it has truly changed everything for me! knowledge is power and the more you learn about physiological birth the more prepared you feel! i had an unmedicated birth with my 1st in a hospital and now im due any day now with my 2nd planning on a birth center birth. Would 100% consider home birth, it just wasn’t an option with us moving and finances not allowing it but make sure you find the right midwives that make you feel comfortable and answer all your questions! you have plenty of time ❤️

Go into it with a positive attitude. You can do it if you set your heart to it. Obviously if other complications arise then you may not be able to but again, try be accepting of this.

Some things you could do or consider. Perineal massage prep, birthing comb, plan to take fairy lights, music etc to boost oxytocin.

I was like you. Really wanted a natural birth. Luckily it happened and I look back feeling so positive about the whole experience x

I second what others have shared! A few things that worked for me:

- Getting a doula! They help to create a positive environment from the start. A good one will also walk through birthing plans and back up plans; this wasn’t something I thought about for my first.

- Taking a hypnobirthing class. My doula happened to offer it which was a plus, but if yours doesn’t they may know someone that does. There’s a book that goes with it that you can get on your own: “Hypnobirthing: The Morgan Method”. The author talks about natural birth and all of the societal pressures and misconceptions that come along with it.

- Took a prenatal yoga class. This helped me SO much to stay flexible and to incorporate movement and various positions during actual labor. I also was able to meet other first time moms. I’ve also talked to other people that did Pilates.

- Walked…a lot! I have a dog so it made it a little easier but if you can, aim to walk at least 30 minutes a day.

You got this mama! 💕

You have loads of time and you're on the right path