Proponents of natural child birth say natural birth is the safest option for both mothers and their babies. Some women swear by the epidural and will recommend one immediately upon hearing the news that you are expecting a baby. You may be left wondering if natural child birth is really all that important.
Does it matter whether you have pain medication when you are in labor? Although opinions vary widely on this issue natural child birth does offer some benefits to the mother and baby. One benefit to the mother is a lower risk of interventions during labor, such as vacuum extraction and episiotomy.
There is evidence to suggest avoiding medication is beneficial to the baby. Some studies have shown babies are less alert and may have trouble sucking or latching onto the breast immediately after birth when the mother has been given drugs. This is particularly true for medications given in early labor. There is more time for the drugs to cross the placenta and enter the baby’s blood stream when drugs are given early in the labor.
There are times when an epidural may actually help the mother. This generally happens when mom is so anxious and tense that her body is working against itself. Extreme fear and tension can actually inhibit dilation. In cases such as this, an epidural may allow the mother to relax a bit and dilate fully. This generally happens with first time mothers who have had little preparation prior to labor.
When the mother is well prepared for birth, there is less anxiety and pain during labor. If you want a natural birth, preparation is essential. Natural pain relief methods such as massage, deep breathing, movement, changing positions, hypnosis for childbirth, music, acupressure and aromatherapy have helped countless women deal with the pain without drugs.
Early labor or even the last few weeks of pregnancy is not the time to try to learn these methods. They take practice, so start early. Natural child birth classes, books, videos and DVDs are available to help you learn and practice these techniques. When you are well prepared, you have a greater chance of having a natural birth without interventions.
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