I’ll never forget the moment my first child entered the world. I pushed him out while lying on my side with my husband next to me and my wonderful doula and midwife cheering me on. The moment he was born, I felt so much joy and relief. He lay on my stomach while we waited for his umbilical cord to stop pulsing. I cut the umbilical cord myself and soaked in lots of skin-to-skin time while my midwife gently tended to me.
In the previous hours, I’d labored in many different positions, stayed hydrated with sips of water, kept my energy up with small bites of food, and focused on breathing through each contraction. I moved in and out of the shower, changed positions frequently, and was reassured that everything was going well and that there was no rush. And when the time came, I got to feel so strong as I finally pushed out my baby.
Some people will be surprised to learn that this was a hospital birth.
Home births and birth centers can be awesome options. They can make it easier to feel comfortable, respected, and have less interventions than hospital births. Women should absolutely have access to these choices.
But hospital births can be amazing too. I know this firsthand because all four of my babies were born in the hospital. (Well, my fourth baby was born on the sidewalk outside the hospital, but that’s a story for another post!) And as a doula, I’ve witnessed magical hospital births that were filled with strength, joy, and deep connection.
Whether you’re planning a medicated or unmedicated birth, aiming for a low-intervention experience, or preparing for the possibility of interventions, hospital births can be positive and fulfilling. And with the right preparation, you can feel confident navigating this environment.
What You’ll Learn in This Post:
- How to make the hospital setting work for you
- Ways to advocate for your preferences with confidence
- Tips to stay connected to yourself, your partner, and your birth team
Let’s dive into how you can turn your hospital birth into a fulfilling and empowering journey.
Why a Hospital Birth Can Be a Beautiful Experience
Hospital births provide a sense of safety and peace of mind for many families. Here’s why:
- Access to expert care: Knowing you have a skilled medical team available if complications arise can help you relax and focus on the birth process.
- Pain relief options: If you’re interested in an epidural, the hospital is the place to access one.
- Support for newborn care: Immediate access to pediatric care for your baby can be reassuring, especially for first-time parents.
Advocating for Your Birth Preferences
One of the biggest concerns expectant parents have is ensuring their voice is heard in a hospital setting. Here’s the key: preparation.
1. Know Your Options
Take time to learn about hospital policies, common procedures, and your choices for labor and delivery.
- Example: Many hospitals now offer wireless fetal monitoring, allowing for more freedom of movement during labor. Ask about this option if it aligns with your birth plan.
2. Communicate Your Preferences
Write a birth plan (or birth preferences list) that’s clear and concise. Share it with your provider ahead of time and bring a copy to the hospital.
3. Bring a Support Team
A supportive partner and doula can help you advocate for your needs and ensure you feel heard.
Remember, advocating for your preferences doesn’t have to feel confrontational. It’s about collaboration and mutual respect between you and your care team.
Staying Connected During Your Hospital Birth
A fulfilling birth isn’t just about what happens physically—it’s about how you feel emotionally and spiritually throughout the experience. Here’s how to stay grounded and connected:
- Create a calming environment: Bring items like a cozy blanket, battery-operated candles, or your favorite playlist to make the hospital room feel more personal.
- Practice mindfulness techniques: Breathing exercises, visualization, or even a short meditation can help you stay focused and calm.
- Involve your partner: Encourage your partner to play an active role, whether that’s providing counter-pressure during contractions, offering words of encouragement, or simply holding your hand.
When you prioritize these connections, you’ll walk away from your birth feeling deeply empowered and supported.
Prepare for Your Positive Hospital Birth
The journey to a fulfilling hospital birth starts long before labor begins. Taking a birth class can give you the tools and confidence to navigate the hospital setting.
My live, virtual class Birthing from Within for Hospital Births will help you:
- Approach birth as a powerful, transformative journey.
- Gain insights into the hospital environment and how to make it work for you.
- Learn practical skills for self-advocacy and coping during labor.
Your birth is a journey—a rite of passage that will shape you in incredible ways. A hospital can be the setting where you feel strong, supported, and inspired as you welcome your baby into the world.