Birth Beyond the Basics: 9 Secrets for a More Comfortable Delivery

“Knowing you have options can help you come closer to achieving the experience you desire.”

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 9 secrets about giving birth that will help you feel more prepared and in control. (And bonus questions to bring up to your doctor, midwife, or doula!) 

1. Birthing location: you’ve got options!

Kearney is home to two amazing hospitals: Kearney Regional Medical Center, and CHI Good Samaritan. There are a few differences between the two. For example, rooms are larger at Kearney Regional, but Good Sam offers nitrous oxide for pain relief. We encourage you to tour both hospitals to see which one feels like a better fit!

Some of our clients prefer birthing outside of Kearney to access more birthing options. We often travel to Grand Island, Hastings, and North Platte to support clients having VBACs or midwife-attended births.

Question for your provider: Which hospital do you think best supports my individual needs and preferences?

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, IV narcotics, and natural methods such as hypnobirthing, acupressure, and massage. Knowing you have options can help you come closer to achieving the experience you desire.

Question for your provider: What pain relief options do I have, other than epidural? 

3. You can personalize your delivery room.

It’s well known that 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. Mood lighting can make your room a cozy haven. Bringing your own clothes, pillows, and blankets from home can bring a lot of comfort — physically and mentally.

Question for your doula: Is there anything you bring to births to support a comforting atmosphere?

4. 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. Kearney hospitals don’t currently offer water birth, so you’ll have to move to dry land before your baby arrives.

Questions for your provider: How can I make sure I can have access to a tub during labor? 

5. Birthing positions: you don’t have to push on your back! 

Pushing on your back is not always optimal for a lot of reasons. There are many other birthing positions that can help make the birthing process easier, such as standing up, sitting down, on your hands and knees, or side-lying. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you. I often see clients in some variation of kneeling – it’s a nice gravity-positive position that’s not super tiring. But I have seen a lot of positions supported in the hospital, even with an epidural, so don’t be afraid to ask to change things up!

Question for your provider: In what positions are you willing to catch my baby? 

6. An Obstetrician isn’t your only option.

Kearney is home to many amazing medical providers. We love working with our local OBs, but many new parents aren’t aware that they have other options, such as family practice docs. If you want a midwife, Grand Island and Hastings have some great options. Having access to more providers ensures that you can find exactly the right fit for you!

Question for your doula: Which providers do you recommend? 

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

This might be a hot take. It might be hospital policy, but it’s no longer evidence-based to restrict food during labor. Of course, we want you to talk over the evidence with your provider, as well as your individual risks. One of our favorite clients ever ordered room service and had a whole meal during her labor. You may not feel like eating at all, and that’s okay. It's important to listen to your body, and to make sure you are well hydrated and nourished. Labor is a marathon! Small snacks can help keep your energy levels up.

Question for your provider: Will you support me eating and drinking during labor?

8. 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. Where to start? I personally love the book Holistic Hypnobirthing by Anthonissa Moger, and we have two copies in our lending library!

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

9. You can still make choices even if you have a cesarean. 

C-sections are a common form of delivery and can be planned or unplanned. Barring an absolute emergency, you typically have time to make choices and create a beautiful, family-centered experience. Some hospitals offer clear drapes so you can see your baby being born. You or your partner can still have skin-to-skin with your baby. You may be able to play your own music in the OR. 

Question for your provider: How can I make my cesarean a family-centered experience?

So, there you have it. Hopefully after reading my secrets for a more comfortable birth, you’re armed with some new information that will help you feel more confident and excited about your birth! 

If you’re still looking for a doula, check out our amazing team of doulas to see which one is a good fit for you!