PREGNANCY
Birth
We believe that birth is a biological, beautiful, and natural process designed by God to bring new life into the world. We feel that the goal is to strive for a safe, peaceful, and preferably drug-free birth whenever possible. We hope to empower women to opt for birthing on their terms, rather than be forced into unnecessary intervention or c-section.
Despite this, we understand that childbirth can be unpredictable, and complications may arise unexpectedly. While we remain flexible in our approach as needed, we prefer to discuss any interventions before they are implemented, even in life-threatening situations.
Click on the button below for our free Google Doc Birthing Plan. Please feel free to make a copy and amend to fit your preferences and desires.
Remember- its your birth, your body, and your baby. You call the shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I choose a home birth?
Home birth is a beautiful option for many low-risk pregnancies. It allows you to labor in your own space, surrounded by familiar comforts, and supported by midwives who trust the natural process. Choosing home birth often means fewer interventions and a more relaxed environment. We recommend connecting with a licensed midwife or holistic birth team who aligns with your values and can assess safety throughout your pregnancy.
2. When should I call my midwife or head to the birth center?
Trust your intuition first and foremost. Generally, you'll contact your midwife when contractions are regular, about 3–5 minutes apart, or earlier if your waters release or you feel something is shifting. Remember: every birth unfolds differently. A calm, trusting environment supports your body's rhythm.
3. What are the stages of labor?
Labor typically unfolds in three stages:
Early labor: Your body warms up; the cervix begins to open. Rest, eat nourishing food, and create a soothing space.
Active labor: Contractions become stronger. Use breath, movement, warm water, and supportive energy to stay grounded.
Third stage: Baby is born, then the placenta follows naturally. Skin-to-skin and bonding are the priority.
4. How can I manage labor pain naturally?
Many women find that labor is intense, but manageable with support. Techniques include:
Breathwork, prayer, and mindfulness
Hypnobirthing
Water (birth pool, shower)
Rebozo work and counterpressure
Movement, rocking, squatting
Homeopathy or herbal support
Affirmations, music, and aromatherapy
5. Can I create a birth plan or intention list?
Absolutely! A birth plan is a powerful tool for communicating your wishes, from lighting and music, to interventions, cord clamping, placenta care, and newborn procedures. We have a free document you can easily adapt to fit your desires.
6. What if my labor needs to be induced?
Many Mothers2B mamas explore natural ways to encourage labor before considering medical induction. Medical induction has its place, but be sure it’s truly needed. Trust in God’s divine timing where possible.
Options include (please discuss with your midwife prior to trying):
Acupressure
Red raspberry leaf tea
Evening primrose oil
Chiropractic care (Webster technique)
Walking, curb stepping, or birth ball exercises
7. What if I need or choose a C-section?
Sometimes, birth takes unexpected turns. If a C-section becomes necessary, you can still advocate for gentle or “family-centered” cesarean practices: dim lights, delayed cord clamping, immediate skin-to-skin, and breastfeeding support. Please see our birth plan template for ways to implement gentle C-section.
8. Can I have a birth partner or doula with me?
Yes and we encourage it! Whether at home or in a center, a supportive, loving birth team (partner, doula, friend, sister) can hold space for your experience.
9. What should I pack for birth?
If you're birthing outside the home, bring:
Your birth preferences
Herbal teas, honey, snacks
Comfy clothes, robe, essential oils
Birth playlist
Natural postpartum care (perineum spray, padsicles, tinctures)
Items for baby (organic clothes, diapers, wipes, blanket)
10. Can I move around during labor?
Yes! Movement supports optimal fetal positioning and encourages progress. Dance, sway, walk, squat, get on all fours. Follow your body’s lead! Being upright helps gravity do its job, and movement eases discomfort naturally.
10. Can I move around during labor?
Yes! Movement supports optimal fetal positioning and encourages progress. Dance, sway, walk, squat, get on all fours. Follow your body’s lead! Being upright helps gravity do its job, and movement eases discomfort naturally.
11. Will my baby be monitored during labor?
In home and birth center settings, intermittent monitoring is an option, using a handheld Doppler rather than continuous straps. This allows for freedom of movement and fewer interruptions. Trust your team to watch baby’s wellbeing without overmedicalizing the process.
12. Can I have a water birth?
Water birth is a gentle, effective way to manage labor and welcome baby. Warm water can reduce pain, ease tension, and create a serene, womb-like space. Many Mothers2B mamas choose this method, whether at home or in a birth center with a tub or pool.
13. Can I eat and drink during labor?
Yes! Please do! Nourishing snacks and hydration are essential for energy and stamina. Think coconut water, herbal infusions, fruit, bone broths, or honey. Birth is a marathon, not a sprint.
14. What happens immediately after birth?
The golden hour is sacred. Baby is placed skin-to-skin, the cord is left to pulse fully, and bonding is the only priority. The placenta is born naturally, often without intervention. Your midwife will ensure you're well and support breastfeeding if you choose.
15. Will I tear during birth?
Not all women tear. Gentle pushing, warm compresses, upright positions, and perineal massage in pregnancy can help. Tearing, if it happens, is usually minor and heals well. Your midwife will offer natural healing remedies like calendula, witch hazel, and sitz baths.
16. What kind of postpartum support do I need?
The fourth trimester matters. Rest, warmth, nourishing food, and emotional care are essential. Surround yourself with support such as a postpartum doula, family, or close community. Herbs, belly binding, homeopathy, and massage can aid your healing.
17. How do I register my baby’s birth?
Your midwife or birth center will guide you through the legal steps. In most places, this includes registering with your local authority and obtaining a birth certificate.
18. What if I feel fear or anxiety about birth?
It’s completely natural! Particularly in a culture that often portrays birth as scary. But birth is powerful, natural, and encoded in your body. Practices like prayer and meditation, affirmations, hypnobirthing, connecting with your baby, and talking through your fears with a trusted doula or counselor can help you reclaim your confidence.
