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Childbirth is an experience that some women look forward to. For others, it brings forth feelings of anxiety and worry. There are some unfounded ideas associated with childbirth in general and unmedicated labour more specifically. One of the most widespread is that giving birth is an extremely painful experience and an epidural is absolutely essential. Labour is actually a natural process for which your body is perfectly designed. Why else would countless women go through time and time again?

Let’s clear the cobwebs

Firstly, you don’t need to have an extraordinarily high pain threshold to give birth naturally. At the peak of your contractions, your body kicks in and releases a surge of endorphins to help you cope with the pain. Also, contractions are at their most intense after 30 seconds. So they might last longer but the pain itself will not build indefinitely.

Second, while giving birth, your body is not being streched abnormally. The parts that do stretch are designed to do so, in order to accommodate your baby.

Thirdly, you don’t have to give birth at home. You can experience this process naturally in a hospital, with medical attention within reach, should it become necessary.

So why put yourself through it?

Because natural childbirth techniques are non-invasive, there is actually less risk to the baby and to you. There may be harmful side-effects associated with a medicated birth.

There is also a feeling of empowerment and control associated with unmedicated labour. You are alert and aware of your surroundings. You are able to walk around and change your position in response to the pain and discomfort, which are often your body’s way of indicating that the baby needs to be repositioned.

In opposition to the ‘knock-em-out, drag-em-out obstetrics’, you are able to fully assist when it comes time to push.

And you and the baby are not the only ones to benefit. Your partner will feel more involved as you both take part in the pain management techniques your doula or midwife has taught you.

Babies born without the help of medication and other non-natural methods are also more alert immediately after birth. And a number of studies report that once you go natural, you never want to go back.

Tags: childbirth