Many people confuse the terms "natural delivery" and "physiological childbirth," believing they are the same. Natural childbirth refers to the physiological vaginal childbirth that, however, takes place with as little medical intervention as possible. This means fewer or no drugs, especially for pain relief, and waiting for the physiological onset of labor with the active participation of the pregnant woman.
The natural process of childbirth, however, does not imply the absence of any modern medical assistance. During natural childbirth, non-invasive modern equipment can be used, such as the cardiotocograph that records the fetal heartbeats and ensures the well-being of the baby.
Natural Childbirth: Managing Pain Without Drugs
Every person has different reactions and tolerances when it comes to pain. Some people have more endurance, composure, and patience, and others do not. In natural childbirth, pain is by no means ignored, but we use non-pharmacological ways to manage it. These methods include:
- Emotional support from both medical staff and partner, friends, or relatives
- Massage
- Breathing techniques
- Distraction techniques and mood improvement, such as music or games
- Use of the birthing ball
Why Choose Natural Childbirth?
Natural childbirth, although it may sound more difficult due to pain management solely through natural methods, is generally easier in most cases and has many advantages.
Specifically, the advantages of natural childbirth include:
- Greater control and a more active role for the pregnant woman in the childbirth process, which contributes to her empowerment, increased self-confidence, and generally a more positive childbirth experience.
- The reduction of complications arising from drugs used in childbirth, such as nausea and high blood pressure.
- Faster completion of childbirth, as the pregnant woman has a full sense of contractions and can thus assist more effectively during the baby's expulsion phase.
- More effective initiation of breastfeeding, as both mother and newborn are alert and do not experience relaxation due to drugs.
- Faster recovery and restoration of the mother, both due to the absence of drugs and the release of endorphins.
- Lower likelihood of the need for medical intervention to accelerate childbirth.
However, natural childbirth is not achievable for every pregnant woman. Even if you have consciously chosen natural childbirth, it may ultimately not be possible due to problems that may arise. Or you may ultimately struggle to manage the pain and request an epidural or other anaesthesia. You can change your mind at any stage of the process during childbirth without feeling guilty. The important thing is to try if you wish.
How Will We Help You?
Whether you are already pregnant or not, if you desire a natural childbirth, it is important to visit us so that together we can make this happen. According to our philosophy, natural childbirth is not just about the process itself, from the onset of childbirth to the baby's exit, but includes a preparation process. This preparation is not just a women's issue, but we desire the equal participation of the partner.
By preparing for your natural childbirth with us, you will come into contact with all non-pharmacological ways of pain management, and you will see which ones suit you. You will learn everything you need to know about the symptoms and process of childbirth, as well as the possible decisions you will need to make.
We will inform you about everything you need to know about pregnancy and the changes it brings to the female body and the stages of fetal development in the first, second, and third trimester, as well as ways to improve this experience. And finally, we will discuss all issues related to the puerperium, the 4th trimester of pregnancy, such as recovery, baby care, breastfeeding, emotional and psychological changes you may experience.
Sources:
https://www.willowobgyn.com/blog/7-advantages-of-natural-childbirth