Childbirth is a momentous occasion and can be one of the most meaningful experiences. It is also a time of intense physical and emotional challenges, often leaving women feeling powerless, exhausted, and overwhelmed.
With the holistic approach to childbirth, mothers-to-be are empowered to take control of the birthing process while promoting a healthier and happier experience for both mother and baby.
Holistic Approach to Childbirth
There are many benefits to taking a holistic approach to childbirth. This approach can help you increase your chances of a natural progression of labor, mitigate risks posed by medical interventions, promote the mother’s and the baby’s overall well-being during birth, and support a healthier pregnancy with a more joyful and meaningful experience. [1]
The holistic approach to childbirth promotes avoiding unnecessary medical interventions and the natural progression of labor without using pain medications. These alternate interventions can include:
- Movement
- Guided imagery
- Hydrotherapy
- Breathing techniques
At all times during pregnancy, a holistic childbirth experience aims to empower the mother and her support team while educating them. [1]
The Role of a Doula
Many women are comforted by having someone with them during childbirth. It could be their partner, a trusted family member, or a nurse.
Doulas have become increasingly popular and are more present during childbirth. Often nurses will be attending to multiple women who are in labor and may not be in a person’s room for extended periods of time. Add their additional duties to their multiple patients; women shouldn’t be surprised if nurses cannot constantly be present.
This is where doulas can fill the gap.
A skilled doula can not only provide that encouraging and consistent presence a mother-to-be may need, but they can also help empower women and their support team. They help women communicate their needs to their medical team, provide different strategies, and focus on providing individual support before, during, and after childbirth. [2]
Those choosing to have a doula support them during this time may notice better birth outcomes and overall experience.[2] The holistic approach to childbirth is an important and powerful tool for empowering women and creating a healthier and happier experience for both mother and baby.
If you are looking for a more holistic approach to childbirth, talk to your midwife or doula about the various tools and techniques that can help.
Resources:
- Leggitt, K. (n.d.). Why should I consider a holistic approach to pregnancy and childbirth? Taking Charge of Your Health & Well-being. Retrieved March 4, 2023, from https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/why-should-i-consider-holistic-approach-pregnancy-and-childbirth#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20benefits%20of,mother%20and%20her%20support%20team.
- Gruber, K. J., Cupito, S. H., & Dobson, C. F. (2013). Impact of doulas on Healthy Birth Outcomes. The Journal of perinatal education. Retrieved March 4, 2023, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3647727/
