For any expecting mother, giving birth is exciting and daunting. During their third trimester, many mothers-to-be will have plenty of questions about giving birth and ensuring that everything goes as smoothly as possible. One crucial factor to consider is preparing for normal delivery. The good news is that there are things you can do to give yourself the best chance of having a smooth delivery. We'll look at changes you can make in your lifestyle, such as eating healthily, exercising regularly, and reducing stress. We'll also look at factors related to your medical team and the type of medical facility you deliver in.
What Is a Normal Vaginal Birth?
Before we delve into which factors improve your chances of a normal vaginal delivery, let's first answer the question, What is a normal vaginal birth? A normal vaginal birth delivery (physiological delivery) occurs when babies are born through the mother's vagina. No medical interventions—such as forceps, vacuum extraction, or a cesarean section—are needed during this birth. In addition, it usually goes without serious complications.
Normal vaginal deliveries are typically preferred by expecting mothers since they offer a natural childbirth process and are generally safer for both mother and baby. Moreover, they also have shorter recovery periods than the other types of birth.
What Factors Affect Successful Vaginally Delivery?
Knowing the factors that can help increase the chances of successful vaginal birth delivery is essential. Below are a few ways you can make sure your journey of childbirth is as smooth as possible:
- Maintain Proper Nutrition
A balanced and perfect diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is essential for pregnant women. Eating nutrient-rich food helps to reduce fatigue during labor and increases the baby's chances of being born healthy.
- Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise during pregnancy promotes muscle tone and strength, helping improve your endurance during labor and VBAC delivery. Walking, yoga, and swimming are excellent low-impact exercises that can help you prepare your body for childbirth.
- Participate in Childbirth Classes
Childbirth classes provide an opportunity to learn more about the labor process, breathing techniques, and pain relief options available. This can also help understand what to expect during labor and vaginal birth after C section.
- Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can cause complications during labor, so it's essential to ensure you drink enough water throughout your pregnancy. Increasing your water intake helps reduce swelling in the body and increases energy levels for the big day.
Prepare for Labor and Delivery: What to Expect
The last trimester is a time of preparation for labor and vaginal birth after C section, and the more you know about the process ahead of time, the better you'll feel during the event.
When it comes to normal delivery, several factors will influence your chances of having a successful outcome:
- Adequate prenatal care— regular visits to your OB/GYN or midwife are essential, as they can monitor your health and the baby's progress.
- Good nutrition—eating a balanced diet rich in folate, iron, and other essential vitamins will help ensure that both you and your child are healthy during pregnancy.
- Exercise—getting some form of exercise during pregnancy helps lower the risk of complications during childbirth. Swimming, walking, yoga, and stretching can benefit mental and physical well-being.
- Manage stress—developing coping mechanisms to manage stress levels before labor can help make the process smoother for you and your baby.
- Use a birthing plan—discussing your birth plan with your doctor or midwife will give them insight into what sort of labor approach you would like to employ during childbirth.
- Practice relaxation techniques—being familiar with relaxation techniques such as hypnosis or deep breathing exercises can help make labor easier on both mother and baby by reducing tension in the muscles involved in normal vaginal delivery for your baby.
Tips for a Successful Normal Delivery
As you approach the end of your pregnancy, there are a few essential steps you can take to ensure successful normal delivery.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet & Exercise Regimen
Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen during your pregnancy to help ensure easier labor and delivery. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables and foods rich in protein will help you stay strong during labor. Exercise helps keep your muscles strong and flexible, decreasing the pain associated with labor contractions.
- Get Enough Rest
Getting enough rest is essential for a successful normal delivery. Make sure to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night; taking short naps during the day is also ok if needed. Keeping stress levels low can also help in getting adequate rest.
- Build up “Birth Muscles”
Kegel exercises can be an effective way to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which can lead to more successful normal delivery. When done correctly, Kegels can help increase blood flow to the pelvic area and reduce hemorrhoids—all while helping facilitate delivery by allowing more room for the baby's head to fit through the birth canal.
If you are looking for the best possible care to ensure a safe and successful delivery, then Aastrika – The Midwifery Center is the place for you! Aastrika offers experienced midwives who focus on providing quality care tailored to individual needs. The midwives at this centre offer services designed to support women throughout their pregnancy journey, from preconception and antenatal care to birth preparation classes and postnatal support.
Aastrika also offers:
- One-to-one antenatal appointments
- Access to a 24/7 helpline with experienced midwives
- An online database of resources
- An information pack tailored to meet your needs
- Ongoing advice and guidance throughout your pregnancy journey.
With our team of dedicated professionals, modern amenities, and range of services offered, Aastrika – The Midwifery Centre is the ultimate support provider for pregnant women aiming for a successful vaginal birth delivery.
