Digital Book Discontinued Birth Choices v1.1 | Page 10

STEP
2
KNOW YOUR
OPTIONS AND
PREFERENCES
Approaches to Birth
No/Low Intervention (Physiologic) Birth
In late pregnancy and throughout labor, hormones are released that cause changes in your body
to allow your baby to be born. This physiologic process happens without any outside influence and
up until a few hundred years ago, this was how all women gave birth. Today, we call this process
physiologic or “natural” birth. This approach strives for a spontaneous labor and avoids medications
and medical interventions as much as possible.
Advantages:
• Minimizes risks associated with medical
interventions for both you and baby.
• Enables you to choose from a variety of
positions and pain-management techniques.
• Often allows a faster and easier recovery.
Disadvantages:
• Requires preparation and commitment.
• Risks feelings of disappointment or grief if
interventions become necessary.
• Produces full-strength sensations of labor.
What appeals to you about this approach?
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
______________________________________
What concerns you about this approach?
_______________________________________
_______________________________________
______________________________________
Birth can unfold in a variety of ways and it is
impossible to predict the events that may occur
during your birth. It is important to know which
approach appeals to you and how to take steps
that will help you achieve your desired experience,
but it is also important to be flexible should
unexpected situations arise or you choose or need
a different approach once you are in labor.
8
Step 2: Know Your Options and Preferences
Tips for Low-Intervention Birth:
• Stay as healthy and low risk as possible.
• Hire a supportive provider and choose a
location with a supportive culture.
• Hire a doula. They can help you prepare and
support your choices during labor.
• Giving birth is a mental challenge as much as
physical. Build your confidence and conquer
your fears ahead of time.