How to Prepare for Childbirth: Midwife-Approved Guide to Labor and Birth Options
Preparation for birth is about more than packing a bag. It’s about understanding your options, building confidence, and finding support that aligns with your goals for labor and birth. As a certified nurse-midwife, I’ve guided hundreds of families through this journey, and I know firsthand how important it is to feel supported and empowered.
This midwife-approved childbirth guide helps you prepare for birth by walking you through evidence-based ways to ready your body, mind, and support team for labor and delivery.
The content on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. While I draw from my experience as a nurse and midwife, nothing here is intended to replace professional medical, legal, or career advice. Please consult with the appropriate licensed provider for individual guidance. Always call 911 or seek emergency help if you are experiencing a crisis.
What to Know Before Heading to Labor & Delivery
Pregnancy can feel like information overload.
One person tells you to eat dates, another warns you about preventing vaginal tearing, and someone else casually drops a C-section horror story in the cereal aisle.
Let me be clear: Their story doesn’t define your birth.
You’re growing as a human. That alone is extraordinary.
And you deserve honest, evidence-based information, without the fear tactics.
What is the best way to give birth to my baby?
I’m a Certified Nurse-Midwife with more than a decade of experience in birth. I’m also a mother who gave birth to four babies in very different ways. I’ve seen birth from every angle: natural, medicated, surgical, and unexpected. There’s no one “right” way to give birth.
What should you expect in labor & delivery?
Now it’s time to get acquainted with the real story and ease those pre-birth jitters. Let’s explore the various methods of giving birth and discuss what to expect during labor and delivery.
Unmedicated Birth
Unmedicated birth appeals to many because it offers more control and fewer interventions. I encourage you to find a birth provider who shares your views. It’s the best way to ensure you feel empowered, listened to, and supported.
- Prepare physically and mentally for childbirth through movement, hydration, and effective coping strategies.
- Hire a skilled doula to reduce interventions and boost overall birth satisfaction.
- Change your mind at any point. Your birth experience is yours, not a checklist.
- Midwives consistently deliver exceptional outcomes and compassionate care, making them a trusted partner in your birthing experience.
How to Prepare for Childbirth Your Way
1. Choose a supportive provider.
Find someone who respects your preferences, avoids unnecessary interventions, and is open to different labor positions and coping methods.
Collaborating across perinatal health care disciplines is key.
2. Pick a setting that fits your birth goals.
Hospitals, birth centers, and home births all have benefits and considerations. If you’re aiming for an unmedicated birth in a hospital, ask about natural childbirth accommodations and C-section rates. For home or birth center options, be aware of the plan in case risk factors arise or labor becomes complicated (For example, you experience symptoms of preterm birth). Resources: AWHONN Intrapartum Care
3. Stay active during pregnancy.
Exercise boosts stamina, flexibility, and confidence—important for labor. You don’t need to run marathons. Walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are excellent ways to stay strong.
4. Consider a doula.
Doulas are associated with lower rates of medical interventions and higher chances of unmedicated childbirth. They can guide natural pain relief methods, suggest optimal positions, and provide continuous support.
5. Hydrate, move, and trust your body.
Support, hydration, and position changes reduce the risk of prolonged labor or complications, especially if you’re aiming for an unmedicated birth.
6. Start bonding with your baby before birth. Your baby isn’t entering the labor process as a blank slate; they have been listening to your heartbeat, tasting amniotic fluid, and reacting to your movements for months. Designing a calm, low-sensory labor environment honors the deep sensory bonding you’ve already established in the womb throughout your pregnancy.
Alternative and Manual Stimulation Methods
These methods require discussion, education, and approval from a qualified health care provider. Safety and timing matter, and not every option is appropriate for every pregnancy.
Professional guidance required
Chiropractic care
Some chiropractors use the Webster technique to address pelvic alignment. The goal is to create optimal space for the baby to descend, not to induce labor.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture involves placing very fine needles at specific points, such as Spleen 6 or Bladder 60. These points are believed to support relaxation and uterine activity. Treatment should only be provided by a licensed practitioner experienced in pregnancy care.
Acupressure
Acupressure uses firm, steady pressure on the same points used in acupuncture. Studies show that it promotes a more favorable cervix. Instruction from a trained provider is important to ensure correct technique and timing (e.g., avoid spleen 6 as it may cause contractions).
Foley bulb
A Foley catheter with a small balloon may be placed in the cervix and inflated to apply gentle pressure. This mechanical method can encourage cervical dilation and is performed by a medical provider in a clinical setting.
Herbal and supplemental support
These approaches are often discussed in midwifery and holistic care settings. Evidence and safety vary, and they should be used only under guidance from a knowledgeable provider.
Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil contains gamma linolenic acid, which the body can convert into prostaglandins. It is thought to help soften and thin the cervix. It may be taken orally or inserted vaginally near term, depending on provider guidance. You may want to forgo this, as some studies showed a possible link to prolonged rupture of membranes. The data also shows EPO may help ripen the cervix, but its impact on the baby’s transition immediately after birth is still being studied, so provider supervision is key.
Red raspberry leaf tea
Red raspberry leaf tea is believed to be a uterine tonic that supports uterine muscle tone and efficiency, but it is not intended to start labor. It is most commonly used in the third trimester. Contrary to popular belief, this study found that RRL did not shorten the first stage of labor. However, it did show two clinically significant benefits: a shortening of the second stage of labor (by about 10 minutes) and a lower rate of forceps deliveries (19.3% vs. 30.4%
Midwife tinctures or naturopathic supplements
These products vary widely and may include herbs such as blue cohosh or black cohosh. Because dosing and effects differ, they require careful supervision from a trained practitioner.
Dates
The evidence shows that eating 6–7 dates per day starting at 36 weeks can increase the likelihood of spontaneous labor, improve cervical ripeness, and reduce the need for interventions like oxytocin (Pitocin).
High caution and discouraged methods
These methods carry a higher risk of unpleasant side effects or misuse without strict guidance.
Castor oil
Castor oil is a strong laxative that irritates the bowels, which may indirectly stimulate the uterus. Many providers discourage its use because it often causes severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and exhaustion before labor begins.
Clary sage essential oil
Clary sage is considered a uterine stimulant. It should never be used before 37 weeks. If used, it must be properly diluted in a carrier oil for massage or diffused. Ingestion is unsafe, and misuse can cause painful or irregular contractions.
Lifestyle and natural methods
Sex
Prostaglandins in semen may help with cervical ripening, and orgasm can stimulate mild uterine contractions.
Walking or stair climbing
Movement and gravity can encourage the baby to move lower into the pelvis, increasing pressure on the cervix.
Nipple stimulation
Nipple stimulation can release natural oxytocin, which may trigger contractions. Because it can cause strong or frequent contractions, it should be done only under clear guidance from a health care provider.
Pushing
People who participated in a structured pelvic floor muscle training program during pregnancy had a significantly lower rate of prolonged second-stage labor (pushing lasting longer than 60 minutes) compared to those who didn’t train. The study found that for every 8 pregnant individuals who do pelvic floor exercises, one case of prolonged pushing is entirely prevented.
Understanding your anatomy can significantly reduce the time spent pushing. Check out the ultimate guide to your pelvic floor to master the mechanics of labor.
Medicated Birth
Epidural anesthesia is the most common form of pain relief during labor, providing regional anesthesia that numbs your lower abdomen. Medications usually combine local anesthetics (bupivacaine or lidocaine) with opioids like fentanyl.
What do I need to know before I get an epidural?
To have an epidural, you will get an intravenous (IV) catheter inserted and IV fluids. You will need to have your recent blood count checked to ensure your platelet count is adequate (typically preferred to be above 100k or 100,000 per microliter of blood), but this may vary by facility policy. Checking your platelet count ensures your blood can clot safely before the procedure.
The anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is the professional who inserts your epidural. You can sit or sometimes lie on your side during the placement. A nurse will monitor your vital signs during the process.
You will push your back out like an angry cat. Cleaning your back with a cold antiseptic solution reduces your chances of infection. After that, you may feel a pinch or a bee sting as they inject local anesthesia (a numbing solution).
The anesthesia provider waits until your back is numb and then inserts a needle through the skin of your back into the epidural space. They place a small catheter, which remains in place while you receive the medication. The needle is taken out, but the catheter constantly provides medication.
All done! The anesthesia team will secure the catheter in place. While removing it may feel like waxing, many patients would gladly endure a little tape-ripping for pain relief. Once it’s in place, medication is continuously delivered to reduce lower-body pain.
But it doesn’t make you unconscious. You’re still alert and present. And for many birthing people, it offers profound relief during an intense physical process.
I’m a midwife and talk to pregnant people every day. While the process can be scary, contractions usually distract you during placement. Sometimes, the medication can cause your blood pressure or the baby’s heart rate to drop. You will know this occurs if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. This is temporary because the medication called phenylephrine can reverse the effects.
Other Pain Relief Options
Medications often come after deep breathing, massage, movement, or warm water fail to manage pain. Pain medication in childbirth includes opiate pain medication and nitrous oxide.
- Opioids: (like Stadol or Nubain). Given through IV or injection, opiates reduce pain but don’t block it completely. It is typically used early in labor; it reduces intensity but does not erase pain. Side effects include nausea, dizziness, and itching. If given soon before birth, it can cause respiratory depression in your baby.
- Nitrous oxide: You breathe into the nitrous mask by yourself and inhale during contractions. Nitrous helps you relax by reducing anxiety and pain perception. Nitrous oxide is self-controlled. The effects wear off within minutes, and side effects are minimal.
Cesarean Section: Operative Delivery
C-sections are surgical procedures to deliver the baby through an incision (opening) in the belly and uterus. Each comes with different considerations, especially if you’re exploring VBAC options. There are several reasons to perform a C-section, including scheduled, urgent, or emergent procedures.
- Scheduled: These are planned and scheduled cesareans. Those with prior C-sections, placenta complications, or certain medical conditions may plan to schedule their surgical birth. If you have a C-section, a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) may be an option with a qualified provider.
- Urgent: When labor or fetal conditions worsen, but immediate danger isn’t present. Typically, the surgery must start (incision) within 30 minutes after making the decision for C-section. You may hear the phrase, “30 mins from decision to incision.”
- Emergent: This procedure should be performed immediately and is indicated when maternal or fetal life is at risk.
Reasons You May Need a C-Section
If you have certain pregnancy complications, you and your provider may decide to give birth by C-section. These scheduled complications include:
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta is near or over the cervix.
Vasa previa is when the blood vessels that the placenta and umbilical cord should protect are left open and vulnerable and cross the cervix.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) outbreaks occur immediately before or during labor. (Outbreaks earlier during pregnancy do not require a cesarean section unless they appear close to labor and childbirth.)
Frequently Asked Questions: Breech Birth
Malpresentation occurs when the baby is not in the head-down position. Types include breech (bottom-first), transverse (sideways), or shoulder presentation.
External Cephalic Version (ECV): Your healthcare provider attempts to manually turn the baby from the outside.
Breech birth with a skilled provider: Rare, but possible in certain settings.
Vaginal breech birth depends on your provider’s skill, baby size, and presentation type.
It depends on your baby’s size, presentation, and your provider’s skill. A footling breech, where the foot presents first, is the most complicated breech delivery.
Frank breech occurs when the fetal legs are positioned toward the head and is the most straightforward breech birth.
Finding a qualified breach OB provider can be challenging, so start early.
First, the doctor will use an ultrasound to look at the baby’s position and see if the baby remains malpositioned. Next, you may get an epidural to be more comfortable. Finally, the doctor will use their hands on the outside of your abdomen to try to move your baby. If the ECV fails or you opt not to have one, your options are to schedule a C-section or seek a provider who will perform a breech birth.
Resource: ACOG ECV Guidelines & FAQs
VBAC candidates may need to meet specific criteria, such as body mass index (BMI), length of time between pregnancies, and the type of incision from your first surgery.
Having a VBAC typically requires having an anesthesia provider and obstetrician, in case of an emergency.
Still a Nurse—Just in a New Role
Thinking about leaving the bedside but staying true to your calling? Grab the free guide: 15 Remote and Nontraditional Jobs for Nurses.
Preparation is Empowerment
Knowing your options, having supportive people and settings, and staying physically and mentally ready can make childbirth a more confident and fulfilling experience. Sometimes birth doesn’t go according to plan, and that’s okay. Feeling supported and informed is what matters most.
I’d love to hear from you. Did your birth go according to plan, or did your baby have their own strategy? Share your story in the comments!
Evidence-Based Resource Corner
- AWHONN Intrapartum Care Resources
- AWHONN Birth Equity & Respectful Maternity Care Toolkit
- ACOG Labor Induction Guidelines & FAQs
- ACOG ECV Guidelines & FAQs
Get a free OB SOAP note template here.
Follow us on TikTok or Instagram.
