10 Things Your Doctor Never Told You About Giving Birth | Augusta, GA Birth Photographer

Jan 14

Hey there mama-to-be! So, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with all the information (or lack thereof) about giving birth. But don't worry, I’ve got you!

Here are 10 things your doctor probably didn't tell you about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control.

(And hey, if these pique your interest, bring these up to your doctor at the next appointment!)

1. You don't have to give birth in the hospital.

Giving birth at home or in a birth center can provide a more relaxed and intimate setting for the birth of your baby. It allows you to have more control over the birthing process and can provide a more personalized experience. This option is safe for low-risk pregnancies and has similar or better outcomes compared to hospital births.

Question for your doctor: Would he/she support you and work with a home birth midwife if you decided to go this route?

I have given birth in all three! All were unique, all were beautiful, and all brought my babies safely into the world.

Front of hospital walking in to photograph a birth

2. Epidurals are not the only form of pain relief available during labor.

Epidurals are a common form of pain relief during labor, but they are not the only option available. Other forms of pain relief include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupuncture and massage. These options can provide a more natural and less invasive form of pain relief.

Question for your doctor: What other pain relief options do they see often that’s effective other than epidural?

My favorite pain relief during labor was definitely water! It felt amazing to be submerged in a warm tub or to have soothing water pouring over me in a shower. Which leads me to my next thing…

3. Birthing pools can help you feel more comfortable and relaxed during labor.

Warm water can help ease the pain and discomfort of contractions, and it also allows you to move around more easily, which can help the baby move down the birth canal. Birthing pools can also provide a sense of privacy and intimacy during labor.

Question for your doctor: Are there birth pools at the hospital or another way I can use water to relax?

I was able to relax so much in the birth pool that it actually slowed down my labor, but I think that’s more the exception than the rule. Either way, the relief was incredible!

4. You will probably poop during labor (and that's okay!).

It's a normal and natural part of the birthing process, and your nurses and doctors are used to it. Don't let this concern hold you back, it's nothing to be embarrassed about.

I pooped every. Single. Time. Lots of women say they don’t even notice when it happens, but I noticed. Seriously though, it’s absolutely normal and they just wipe it away without a word and go about catching that sweet baby.

5. Birthing positions - there are many different positions that can help make the birthing process easier.

There are various birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or even lying down. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you.

Question for your doctor: In what positions are you willing to help me birth my baby?

I personally have experienced lying on my back, squatting on a birth stool, kneeling while holding onto the back of the hospital bed, and hands and knees. Kneeling upright was my favorite, but what feels best for you will be dependent on lots of factors.

6. Doulas are a great support and aren’t only used for birth.

A doula is a professional trained to provide emotional and physical support to a woman and her partner during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum period. A doula can help you with relaxation techniques, provide emotional support, and advocate for your wishes during birth.

Question for your doctor: Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?

Doulas are amazing! I had one for my first and wish I could have had one for each of my births. She supported me, made me laugh, and reminded me of my strength. My husband is wonderful, but he is totally lost when it comes to supporting a woman in labor. He held my hand and rubbed my back, but a doula is another level. Highly recommend.

7. You can eat and drink during labor, if you want to.

Having a light snack can help keep your energy levels up. It's important to listen to your body and your healthcare provider during labor, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished.

Question: Under what circumstances will I not be allowed to eat or drink in labor?

With my second, my midwife was constantly having me eat a snack to keep up energy or drink something to stay hydrated.

With my third I was adamant about finishing my dinner before going into the hospital because they had a “water only” during labor policy and I didn’t know how long it would take. I also brought snacks for after, because if you have your baby in the middle of the night, the kitchen will likely be closed and you will be ravenous!

8. The power of the mind - visualization and other relaxation techniques can help during labor.

Visualization and relaxation techniques such as hypnobirthing, yoga, and meditation can help you stay calm and focused during labor. It can also help to lower stress hormones and increase endorphins, which can make labor more manageable.

Question: Is there anything I can do now to learn how to cope with labor?

9. Cesarean sections are not as scary as they seem.

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Your doctor and nurses will take great care of you and your baby during the procedure. It's important to remember that a c-section is a surgical procedure and there are risks associated with it, but it can also save the lives of both mother and baby in certain situations.

Question: In what circumstances do you perform c-sections?

I was able to photograph a c-section and it was beautiful! The doctor was great and the anesthesiologist was so kind and attentive. They took such great care of mom and baby and even had mom laughing throughout the whole procedure.

10. You can bring your own music or sounds to the delivery room.

Music can have a powerful impact on our emotions, and it can help create a calm and soothing environment for you during labor. You can bring your own playlist, a sound machine, or even your own voice to help you relax and focus during labor.

Question for your doctor: Can I bring music to the birthing room?

I loved photographing a laboring mom recently who was listening to instrumental church hymns. It was so peaceful. For one of mine, I remember putting on a more upbeat playlist that I could move and dance to. Whatever you’re in the mood for to get you through that phase.