How do you prepare for birth? – A guide for expectant mothers

Preparing for the birth is an important part of pregnancy. Many expectant mothers feel both joy and excitement, but also have questions about what will happen during the birth. Good preparation can bring more calm and help you feel more secure in the process.

In this guide we go through some of the most important things that can help you prepare for the birth.

The three stages of birth

A birth typically unfolds in three stages, in which the body gradually works to help the baby into the world. Although every birth is different, most follow an overall course.

The dilation stage

In the dilation stage, contractions begin working to open the cervix. The contractions usually become gradually stronger and closer together. For first-time mothers this stage can last several hours, while for others it can go faster.

The pushing stage

When the cervix is 10 cm open (fully dilated), the birth moves into the pushing stage. Here the contractions and the body's natural urge to push help move the baby out through the birth canal.

The placental stage

After the baby is born, the placenta is delivered. This stage is called the placental stage and marks the end of the birth.

Breathing and relaxation

During birth the body works intensely, which is why breathing and relaxation can be useful tools. Calm breathing can help the body relax and stay focused during contractions. During pregnancy, many practise:

• calm, deep breaths
• releasing tension in the shoulders and jaw
• resting and gathering energy between contractions

This can make the techniques feel more natural to use during the birth itself.

The partner's role during the birth

Many choose to have their partner or another support person with them during the birth. It can be a great help to have someone by your side whom you trust, and who can help create calm in a situation that is often both intense and emotional.

A partner can play many different roles during the birth. First and foremost, they can be an important source of encouragement and emotional support. During a birth there can be moments when the mother becomes tired, unsure or overwhelmed by pain and emotions. Here a partner can help with encouraging words, holding hands and reminding her that she is doing well.

It can be a good idea to talk about your expectations for the birth already during the pregnancy. By sharing thoughts, wishes and any worries, you can better prepare for how you want to support each other during the birth.

How can the body be prepared for birth?

During pregnancy, many natural changes take place in the body to prepare it for birth. Many pregnant women find that gentle movement and exercise feel good during pregnancy. This could be walks, pregnancy yoga, light strength training or pelvic and body exercises. The most important thing is to find activities that feel good and comfortable for your body.

Creating a sense of security around the birth

For some, it helps to talk to a midwife or another health professional about the thoughts and questions that can arise around the birth. Others find calm in preparing in other ways, for example by reading about birth, talking to other pregnant women or parents, attending antenatal classes or considering their own wishes for the birth.

Why is birth preparation a good idea?

Birth preparation can give you a better understanding of what happens in the body during a birth, and what options exist along the way. For many, it is helpful to learn more about the stages of birth and to learn concrete tools that can be used during the birth.

An antenatal course typically covers how a birth progresses and what to expect along the way. At the same time you work with techniques that can support the body in the birth process.

On our course you learn, among other things, about:

• how contractions work, and how they help the body open the cervix and bring the baby into the world
• breathing and relaxation, which can help you keep calm and focused during contractions
• different birthing positions that can support the body and provide better working conditions during the birth
• options for pain relief, both natural methods and medical options
• the partner's role, and how a partner or support person can be an active support during the birth

For many, knowing the course of a birth and having practised some of the techniques in advance brings a greater sense of security.

An individual experience

Every birth is unique, and it can be hard to predict exactly how it will unfold. Even if you have given birth before, the next birth can feel completely different. Pregnancy and birth develop differently from one time to the next, and there is therefore no one right way a birth should go.

Many find, however, that knowledge, preparation and support can help create greater calm and security in meeting the birth. The most important thing is to find the form of preparation that feels meaningful to you and suits your needs during pregnancy.

A safe supplement to your preparation

Our role is to be a supplement to the existing maternity care – a place where you can be met in your thoughts and gain a better understanding of your pregnancy and the coming birth. For many, this helps create greater calm and trust in the body in the time leading up to the birth.

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