The following is not intended to be taken for medical advice and is only presented for informational purposes only. Always consult with your own health provider for your pregnancy care.
The act of childbirth may be as ancient as time itself, but that doesn’t mean that there is only one way for a baby to make their way out. From vaginal birth to water birth to C-section, the options for types of birth are as varied and unique as women themselves.
Since every pregnant person has a unique set of circumstances, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with different birthing processes to choose the path that is best for you and your baby. Exploring your birthing options can empower your birthing experience and help you to feel more prepared during the process of labor and beyond.
Jump to a birthing type:
1. Spontaneous Vaginal Birth
The most common way to give birth is a vaginal delivery—when a baby is delivered through the vagina. Without any interventions, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology refers to this type of birth as spontaneous vaginal birth. Spontaneous vaginal deliveries involve labor that progresses on its own and the mother pushing the baby out without any tools or interventions. You can get an epidural or another form of pain management with spontaneous vaginal birth. Many women choose to have vaginal deliveries in a hospital or medical facility.
How to prepare
Preparing for vaginal birth usually involves attending a childbirth class, as well as maintaining an open dialogue with your doctor. You will want to learn how to tell if you are in pre-labor and active labor, as well as identify when your contractions are strong enough and close enough together to head to the hospital, and what will happen when it’s time to push. You may also want to research pain management options and be sure to write out your birth plan. Although vaginal birth is considered the “standard,” that doesn’t mean that it will be the same—or even the safest—route for every woman. It’s important to develop a plan with your doctor for what to do during labor and delivery.
Recovery
Recovery from spontaneous vaginal delivery can vary. You can expect soreness and postpartum bleeding for up to six weeks after delivery, so it’s a good idea to at least give yourself at least that amount of time to rest. But keep in mind that your recovery timeline is specific to your delivery experience and health needs- some women may take longer to heal, while others might feel better quicker.
Many women who experience vaginal deliveries will have some degree of tearing in their perineum, the area between their vagina and anus, as they push their baby out. This is referred to as a perineal tear. Perineal tears can vary in severity, from minor tears requiring a few stitches to deep tears on the muscular level that require surgery to repair. It goes without saying that your recovery time can be impacted by severe tears. You can expect to utilize ice packs and pain medication (like ibuprofen) to manage discomfort for a few weeks after delivery. You’ll also want to be sure to stock up on postpartum pads and undies so you stay comfortable as you bleed for around 4-6 weeks.
What to ask your doctor
If you hope to have a spontaneous vaginal birth, let your doctor know that you wish to give birth without interventions. Be sure to ask questions about what types of pain medications are available to you before and after delivery, and present any questions about the process of labor beforehand.
2. Vacuum and Forceps Assisted Delivery
There are some instances when a little extra help is needed for baby to make their way out of the vaginal canal during delivery. This can happen if a baby shows signs of distress or stops moving through the canal after hours of pushing. Your doctor may want to use a tool to help extract the baby and move them along. They may choose either a vacuum or forceps to help guide the baby’s head out while you push.
How to prepare
Although you don’t know how your labor will really go, you can prepare for a vacuum or forceps delivery by understanding what these procedures are, the risks involved, and when they are used. Today, doctors most commonly use vacuums over forceps and if they are used, your baby may have some small bruising or a “cone” on top of their head from the suction.
Recovery
There are risks to both mother and baby with a vacuum or forceps delivery, including increased risk of tearing and incontinence for mother and a risk of injury to baby’s head. Mother may also have bruising and swelling in the perineum, which can be managed with ice and ibuprofen.
What to ask your doctor
You may want to ask your doctor how often they perform vacuum or forceps assisted deliveries, and in what circumstances they are used. Your doctor will have experience and preferences, so asking them about what they have seen in previous deliveries using tools can help you understand what to expect if you require assistance. It’s also important to hear your doctor explain the risks associated with these types of deliveries so you can be fully aware of your situation in the delivery room.
3. Unmedicated Birth
Unmedicated birth is often called “natural” birth, but we know that all births are natural, so you won’t hear us using that term. Instead, let’s call unmedicated birth what it is: giving birth with no pain medications. A mother might choose unmedicated birth to reduce the risk of medical interventions, or by no choice at all due to timing and being unable to receive medication in time for delivery.
How to prepare
Unmedicated births do require some advance preparation, especially mentally. You are going to get the full force of contractions, which can be painful for some people. (Truthfully, this is painful for most people, but everyone is different!) It can be helpful to prepare and practice relaxation and pain management techniques, such as massage, visualization, and even the application of essential oils, to help you remain as comfortable as possible as you move through labor contractions.
To prepare for any “bumps” in the road during unmedicated delivery, researching natural techniques to progress labor along is a great way to prepare. Connecting with a doula or a midwife can also be extremely helpful for women who choose unmedicated births. They possess the expertise to help you reach your delivery goals. If you choose an unmedicated labor and birth in a hospital, make sure that your care team is aware of your preferences not to receive medications. Since births can often be unpredictable, it’s also important to decide beforehand whether or not you will want to receive pain medication if you encounter a specific hurdle and discussing that preference with your labor support person.
Recovery
Recovery from an unmedicated birth is similar to recovery from spontaneous vaginal delivery. There may be soreness and the risk of tears in the perineum, which will contribute to recovery time. However, without medications, many women may find they are more alert and better able to move around after an unmedicated childbirth.
What to ask your doctor
An unmedicated birth might start with preparation on pain management techniques. It is very important to discuss with your doctor whether or not you are a good candidate for an unmedicated birth, and what policies they practice when it comes to natural birth. You want to ask how your baby will be monitored and work with your care team to balance the birth experience you desire with the most optimal health outcomes for you and baby.
When you choose unmedicated birth, there’s always a chance you will get to labor and change your mind and want pain medicine. This is totally normal, and it doesn’t make your birth any less “natural.” Your care team can make sure you get what you need to make it through the birthing process.
4. Medicated Birth
During a medicated birth, pain medication is administered to the mother throughout the labor process. You may be familiar with spinals and epidurals, but there are also other options for pain medications, such as the use of painkillers like opioids, nitrous oxide, and local anesthetics. These medications are not as effective at combating labor pains as an epidural or spinal block, and they do have side effects. But for mothers who cannot or choose not to have an epidural, they can provide some relief during an arduous labor.
- Opioids such as morphine are sometimes used for labor and delivery for women who choose not to have an epidural. They are usually administered through an IV. There are minor side effects for the mother, such as itchiness and nausea, and more serious side effects to the baby such as an impact on heart rate or their breathing.
- Nitrous oxide, popularly known by its stage name laughing gas, is a tasteless gas that is used to help mothers feel calmer throughout the labor process. Many hospitals will mix nitrous oxide with oxygen and let the mother self-administer the gas as she needs it. There aren’t a lot of risks nitrous oxide, since it doesn’t disrupt oxytocin production or the bond between mother and baby. It’s not as strong as other pain management options, however.
- Local anesthetics such as Novocain and lidocaine are used during labor as pain relief by being injected directly to the vaginal or perineal area. This is mostly used for relief from the pain if you require any stitching from a perineal tear, rather than relieving pain from contractions. The most significant risk with these drugs is an allergic reaction for the mother.
How to prepare
Become familiar with your doctor’s and hospital’s practices when it comes to medicated births. For instance, not all hospitals or birthing facilities offer laughing gas. If you are interested in a particular method, be sure to research it and bring any questions to your doctor to decide if you are a good candidate for that type of pain relief. Making sure your care team knows your preferences beforehand can help everyone be prepared on the day of delivery.
Recovery
The recovery process from a medicated birth will involve working through any side effects that you may experience. In general, however, any effects from medications are short-term and may not last much longer past the delivery point, depending on when they are administered.
What to ask your doctor
As always, discuss your birth plans with your doctor and what options for pain medication they have available for you during labor and delivery. Ask your doctor about the possible side effects for each type of medication, as well as what you can expect while using the medication. And be sure to mention any allergies you have to medication as well.
5. Epidural Birth
Epidural births are extremely popular for relieving pain during labor. An epidural block involves injecting anesthesia in the lower part of your spine to relieve pain from the waist down. They work by stopping pain signals from travelling to the brain and are generally regarded as highly effective, so the mother can expect some serious relief from labor pains after receiving one. You’ll remain awake during this process and an epidural won’t knock you out, but your legs typically will feel heavy and you may not be able to move them as well. In general, epidurals are considered very safe and low-risk, but as with any medical procedure, there are some risks to be aware of.
How to prepare
If you think an epidural birth is right for you, talk with your doctor about when during the labor process you are able to get one. There is a certain point during labor where it may be too late for you to get an epidural, so you can discuss when the ideal time to get one might be. Sometimes, doctors advise going for the epidural earlier, since it can be uncomfortable to have the procedure done when you’re in a lot of pain with contractions, since you do have to sit still for the epidural placement. Additionally, once you have an epidural, you won’t be allowed to get out of bed while in labor, so if walking around is part of your birth plan, you’ll want to take that into consideration.
Some women are still able to empty their bladder with an epidural in, but others may not be able to, so if that’s you, your nurse will use a straight cath to empty your bladder for you every few hours in labor (a full bladder can block your baby from progressing down the birth canal.) Additionally, while you probably won’t feel much pain with an epidural, there may still be some pressure felt as you try to push baby out, so be prepared for that.
Recovery
After the baby is delivered, your epidural numbness will slowly wear off and you’ll steadily regain movement in your lower half. Once the epidural is completely worn off, you’ll be able to get out of bed and use the restroom. Just be sure you wait until your nurse is in the room before you attempt walking for the first time!
What to ask your doctor
Talk with your care providers about the risks and benefits of an epidural, and whether or not it’s right for your situation. You’ll usually speak with the anesthesiologist performing your epidural block beforehand, so you can also ask them to ask questions about possible side effects (or, you can ask your support person to ask them if you’re a little busy having contractions!).
6. Combined Spinal-Epidural or “Walking Epidural” Birth
A combined spinal-epidural block (CSE) is used by anesthesiologists to combine an epidural block with a spinal block that will provide rapid pain relief with the ability to give continuous low doses of relief through the epidural tube. This is sometimes called a “walking epidural” because it leaves you with a bit more feeling in your lower half than a traditional epidural block. You may not be able to walk around as much as the name suggests, however. It’s more likely that you will be simply able to shift your position a bit more than with a standard epidural.
How to prepare
Preparing for a CSE looks a lot like preparing for a standard epidural. Keep in mind that not all facilities will offer it and because you’ll go through the same process as a full epidural, you will need to speak with your doctor about the scenarios where a CSE would be appropriate and decide if you are a good candidate for this kind of pain relief. The spinal block portion of the CSE will provide pain relief quickly at first, but it will wear off after the first couple hours and the epidural will provide small amounts of medicine after that. You will be awake like you would be with a standard epidural block. You want to make sure you talk with your doctor and anesthesiologist about any risks, complications, and questions you have.
Recovery
Recovering from a CSE is similar to a standard epidural. Remember that even though it’s called a “walking epidural,” you probably will not be able to walk around right away as you will still be a bit numb. You may be sore at the site of the CSE in your back for a few days after birth.
What to ask your doctor
Every mother will have their own unique goals for their births. If you think a CSE will help you achieve your desired birth experience, ask your doctor if CSEs are usually done at your hospital and whether or not you are a good candidate for one. Your doctor and anesthesiologist will inform you of the risks of the CSE, but you should also ask about the benefits for your specific birth goals.
7. Scheduled C-Section
A cesarean delivery, or C-section, is a surgical procedure where a baby is delivered via incisions in a mother’s abdomen and uterus. The incision is usually horizontal, above your public bone. A scheduled C-section is a planned and scheduled surgery date to deliver the baby. C-sections can be scheduled for a number of reasons, such as an issue with mother’s health, delivering multiples (like twins), or a problem with the placenta. You will be awake for a scheduled cesarean. You will receive a spinal block, numbing you from the waist down, and be wheeled into the operating room for a team of doctors and nurses to remove the baby from your womb. Your doctor will prepare you during your pregnancy if they believe you should undergo a scheduled C-section.
How to prepare
You and your doctor will choose a date and time for your birth and discuss any pre-surgery prep you need, such as arriving early, shaving near your incision site, and removing jewelry. You will need to stay at the hospital for a few days after your surgery, so be sure you have a bag packed for you, your support person, and your baby before you head to the hospital. You’ll most likely experience pain after a C-section, so be sure to have a conversation with your doctor about what medications and pain relief options you will have after your spinal block wears off.
If you’re wondering how long a C-section will take, the answer will vary. The standard answer is around an hour, but a variety of factors can influence the length of surgery, such as scar tissue and the baby’s position. It varies, but you should still be able to have skin-to-skin with your baby in the OR if you choose to do so.
You should also plan for what happens after a C-section. You won’t be able to drive for two weeks and your mobility will be very limited. There will also be quite a bit of pain, and many women will manage the pain with opioids at first, then switch to Tylenol and Motrin a few days later. Be sure to line up some help in the weeks and months following your C-section to ensure you can get adequate rest and give your incision time to heal.
Recovery
C-section recovery takes longer than vaginal birth because it’s a major surgery that requires time for healing. Immediately after surgery, you won’t be able to get out of bed until your spinal or epidural has worn off. Once your pain medication has been worn off, you can expect to feel a lot of pain and cramping, so ask for some medicine to help you cope with it. Your nurses will get you up and walking to help you avoid stiffness and relieve any built-up gas during the surgery.
The incision takes a few weeks to heal and you can expect soreness as you gingerly move around caring for your newborn. You will have bleeding for 4-6 weeks just as you would with a vaginal birth, but pain and soreness can linger for 6-8 weeks. Beware of stairs or too much movement right after surgery until your incision is fully closed and healed. You should expect to be taking pain medication for a certain amount of time while you’re at home, and to work with your doctor to come up with a recovery plan for your specific surgery and situation. For more details about C-section recovery, check out TrulyMama’s full C-Section Recovery Guide.
What to ask your doctor
A scheduled C-section is not without its risks for complications, including infections and blood loss. These complications should be seriously considered and weighed against a vaginal birth for each patient, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you might have for the procedure. It’s also not a bad thing to advocate for yourself if you truly feel you do or don’t want a scheduled cesarean—make sure your doctor is willing to listen to and address your feelings about the matter.
8. Emergency C-Section
During labor, it is possible that complications will arise. Your doctor may decide that the safest way to deliver the baby is through a cesarean birth, even if that wasn’t the initial plan. When this happens, it’s called an emergency C-section. It varies from a scheduled cesarean in that time is of the essence due to a risk for mother or baby, so your doctor will try to get the baby out quickly. Some reasons you may have to undergo an emergency cesarean include fetal distress, slow labor, and cord prolapse.
Your pain management situation may be different in an emergency situation due to the need to work quickly. If you already have an epidural by the time the decision is made, you will be given more medicine through your epidural so you can be awake during the cesarean. In some rare cases, your doctor may use general anesthesia in order to remove the baby faster, which means you will not be awake when your baby is delivered.
The type of incision used in an emergency situation can also vary in from that of a scheduled cesarean. Your doctor may decide to make a vertical incision, from belly button to pubic bone, to get to the baby faster. This type of incision may take longer to fully heal.
How to prepare
It’s tough to prepare for an emergency situation, so it may be all you can do ahead of time to be aware of the possibility of an emergency C-section. You could also discuss with your doctor ahead of time how you will be presented information about your health and your baby in light of an emergency, as well as how you will consent to the procedures.
Recovery
Recovering from an emergency cesarean on paper may look similar to the recovery from a scheduled cesarean. You can expect the incision soreness, the pain and cramping, and the lochia that comes with any cesarean for six to eight weeks. But you may also be extra groggy from surgery depending on what kind of anesthesia was used during the procedure, and as such you may have a hard time holding your baby or breastfeeding at first (though you can still ask your care team for skin-to skin if that is what you desire!). You will need to manage your incision pain with medicine as you would with a planned cesarean, and you will have to have some help getting up and around for a few days.
Mentally, It can be very challenging to have your previous birth plans dashed and be forced to work through the recovery of a cesarean you may not have wanted, or at least didn’t plan. Try to remember that at the end of the day, a healthy mother and baby is what is important, and choose a doctor and care team you trust to make the right decisions in a challenging situation.
That being said, you may find the experience of unexpected surgery to be traumatizing. Emergency C-sections can significantly increase your risk for postpartum depression. If you find yourself dealing with intense emotions of guilt or disappointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to your OBGYN or a mental health professional to help you process these feelings.
What to ask your doctor
Form a trusting relationship with your doctor and ask them to describe scenarios when they would make the call for a cesarean. Make sure to discuss how you will consent for the surgery and present any concerns you have to your doctor.
9. VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)
A vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) is an effort to give birth vaginally when a previous baby was delivered via C-section. Mothers will attempt what is referred to as a trial of labor with a VBAC—this is an attempt to progress through the stages of labor and birth for a spontaneous vaginal delivery. Pain relief options such as an epidural are available for women who choose to VBAC.
VBACs are chosen by mothers for a number of reasons: fewer risks for future pregnancies, less strenuous recovery time, or a more general involvement in the delivery process. There are some risks to VBACs, including infections, blood loss, and your old incision opening up, so you should discuss whether or not you’re a good candidate for one with your doctor.
How to prepare
To prepare for a vaginal birth when you have had a previous cesarean, you’ll want to start by talking with your doctor about whether or not this method of delivery is right for your pregnancy. Then you will want to ensure you give birth at a VBAC-friendly practice or hospital—aka a place where VBACs are done frequently, with doctors and nurses who are familiar with your choice of delivery. Women who choose VBACs will most likely be closely monitored during labor to ensure an emergency cesarean isn’t necessary. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout pregnancy can also increase your chances for a successful VBAC. You want to do everything you can to support your body’s natural process of going into labor.
Recovery
Recovery from a VBAC is a recovery from a standard vaginal birth, which means you will probably recover from birth much quicker and have a lot less pain than your previous C-section recovery. You may still need to take pain medication and deal with any tearing or stitching that occurred during the pushing process, but you can expect the pain to be much more manageable. You can also move around on your own pretty much right away, unlike your cesarean recovery that required a great deal of assistance.
What to ask your doctor
Discuss the pros and cons of VBAC if you have had a previous cesarean with your doctor. The reason for your previous cesarean will play a large role in this decision, as well as your current pregnancy health and the size of your current baby. Express your desires and concerns to your doctor when it comes to your preferred delivery method, and be sure your care team knows to support your VBAC goal. You may also want to ask your doctor during which circumstances they would end a trial of labor and conduct an emergency cesarean so you can be prepared for the scenario.
10. Induction
Even if you choose to have a vaginal delivery, going into labor isn’t always smooth sailing. Many doctors may try to induce, or start, the process of labor. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, “The goal of induction of labor is to achieve vaginal delivery by stimulating uterine contractions before the spontaneous onset of labor.” Induction of labor may be recommended due to a medical condition such as preeclampsia, or if a woman is not going into labor on her own. Women can also request an induction as well.
Some of the methods for inducing labor include:
- Artificial Rupture of Membranes (AROM) occurs when your doctor breaks your bag of water in order to accelerate contractions.
- Cervical ripening involves taking medication to thin out the cervix so it can dilate.
- IV medications can be used to administer Pitocin, a synthetic hormone that stimulates contractions.
How to prepare
If you’re considering induction for birth, it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether or not the process is right for your pregnancy. The final weeks of pregnancy are critical for baby’s lung development and coordination, so it’s important not to induce too early. There are many risks associated with induction of labor as well, especially if you have a previously existing medical condition. Discuss which form of induction is right for you, or if your doctor recommends induction, be sure that they fully explain why it is medically necessary.
Recovery
You may have to deal with some of the side effects of the medicine used to induce labor, but otherwise you can expect a normal recovery from birth after being induced. Contact your doctor if you have any fever or worsening pain after delivery.
What to ask your doctor
Induction shouldn’t increase your risk for a cesarean delivery when done at the right time, so talk with your care providers about when and what type of induction is safest for your pregnancy. Ask your doctor about the risks of induction, especially if you have had a prior cesarean or previous complications.
11. Water Birth
A water birth is the process of laboring and/or delivering in a tub of water. The idea is that immersion in water provides pain relief to a laboring mother, enabling her to relax and progress labor. Laboring in water may also shorten the later stages of labor for the mother, resulting in a more positive birth experience.
The act of giving birth in water itself, however, is controversial. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology does not recommend the practice of giving birth in water, citing insufficient evidence for the baby’s safety and serious risks like infections and hypothermia. However, there is recent evidence to support the claim that water births do not carry an increased risk to babies. Without a general consensus, women should carefully discuss with their care team when deciding whether or not a water birth is right for them. At the very least, you should be able to labor in a tub, even if you don’t actually give birth in the water.
How to prepare
The first step in preparation for a water birth is figuring out whether or not it’s the right choice for your delivery. Your care team will help guide you in this decision. For mothers in circumstances such as carrying multiples, undergoing preterm labor, or having a breech baby, water birth may not be the safest option.
If you’re using a birthing tub at a hospital, keep in mind that many hospitals allow laboring in tubs but do not allow women to give birth in them for safety reasons. Be sure to check on what the policy for your hospital or birthing center is regarding water during labor and delivery, and prepare accordingly.
Recovery
An uncomplicated water birth recovery may be a bit easier than vaginal birth, as there is evidence to suggest water births decrease perineal trauma. But as with any vaginal birth, there is a risk of tearing and soreness in the perineal area should be expected.
What to ask your doctor
If you are interested in a water birth, you should seek a care provider who is familiar with the practice. You may want to wait until your third trimester to officially decide on a water birth so you can see how your pregnancy is going and whether or not you have any complications that would hinder an attempt at a water birth. There are many knowledgeable professionals who can educate you about the benefits and risks, but since the ACOG does not recommend this method of birth, it’s important to work closely with a medical professional who is familiar with your particular prenatal needs.
12. Home Birth
Many women labor at home in the early stages, but giving birth at home has recently become a popular option for birth in the United States. The interest has especially grown due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the many hospital restrictions that came with it.
There is evidence that for healthy, low-risk mothers, home births had outcomes that were equal to or better than hospital births. But despite home birth’s popularity, home births are still considered to be less safe than hospital births. If you have any type of complications or have had a prior cesarean surgery, it is not recommended that you choose home birth. This is because hospitals are better equipped to deal with emergencies quickly, and because home births are associated with an increased risk of death and serious complications.
How to prepare
First, talk with your doctor about whether or not you’re a good candidate for a home birth, then find and interview a nurse-midwife. A midwife will typically be your guide during the process of labor and delivery at home and you will also want to check the rules on home birth in your state. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that two care providers attend a delivery. During a home birth, you won’t be able to get an epidural, so it’s important to have an idea of what pain management techniques you’ll use to get through labor.
If you’re aiming to give birth at home, keep all of your doctor’s appointments to make sure you or baby are complication-free. You can use Truly Mama’s home birth guide for complete prep tips. And remember—you can always change your mind and head to the hospital if something doesn’t feel right.
Recovery
After giving birth vaginally at home, you can experience one of the top selling points of home birth: crawling into your own bed. Your care provider will follow all the protocols for ensuring you and your baby’s health is attended to, right at home, as well as help you with the necessary paperwork.
What to ask your doctor
Ask your doctor if home birth is right for you and your baby. Be sure to ask for recommendations for reliable nurse-midwives, as they will play an important role in your postpartum care at home. Keep any postpartum appointments as well, and don’t hesitate to head to the hospital at any point.
13. Hypnobirth
Hypnobirthing—or practicing deep relaxation and visualization—is a method for pain management during labor. It takes a lot of practice for women to learn to hypnotize themselves, and there isn’t strong evidence that ties hypnobirth to a better birth outcome. But for some women who find the idea of giving birth daunting, learning self-soothing techniques certainly can’t hurt.
How to prepare
There are a number of online courses to teach women how to use hypnosis during labor. You can do your own research to find a course that fits your preferences, and coach your support person as well.
Recovery
Hypnobirthing can help some women feel calmer and increase their trust in their bodies during the course of labor and delivery. If used as an alternative to pain medication, women can expect a normal recovery period after a vaginal birth.
What to ask your doctor
If your goal is to use hypnobirth as an alternative to pain medication, be sure to speak with your doctor about your plans.
A Quick Note on Birthing Positions
Just like there are a number of different types of birth, there are a number of positions that women can physically give birth in. Thanks to movies and shows that depict just one way of giving birth, it may not be common knowledge for all first-time moms that they have more options than just the standard way of reclining back.
For instance, you can give birth kneeling, sitting, lying on your side, standing, using a birthing stool, in an OR room, or using a birthing bar. Bottom line? No matter which position you give birth in or what type of birth you have, each type of birth is a special experience that should be celebrated as the miraculous event it is for both mother and baby.
There are a lot of ways to give birth, but Truly Mama is here for you, no matter how you become a parent. And if you’re ready to start planning for the type of birth you hope to have, you can use our free and easy-to-use birth plan template to help you get organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my birth options?
There are a variety of options for birth, including: vaginal birth, water birth, hypnobirth, scheduled C-section, and more. Discuss these options with your doctor to decide which type of delivery is right for you.
Is water birth safe?
Laboring in water in the early stages is widely accepted as a form of pain management. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology does not recommend the practice of giving birth in water, citing insufficient evidence for the baby’s safety. However, laboring in a tub could still be an option.
