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Creating a Positive Birth Environment

© Maurenne Griese

I want to thank Karen Kilson, CD (DONA) for allowing me to share this week's feature article on how families can create a positive birth environment. I have been wanting to bring an article like this to Suite101.com's readers for some time now. I just happened upon it at Karen's website for parents and doulas. A link to her site is at the bottom of the article. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.-Maurenne

Labor and birth, of course, are very physical. Not only will the mother expend much energy during this time, but also her senses can be heightened. These perceptions, although sometimes overlooked, can add to or detract from her comfort and well-being, and therefore can even affect her progress. The following are some points to consider when preparing your birthing environment. A doula can help you add some of these considerations to your birth plan, and will also help you to achieve the environment you wish to have. These considerations apply whether you are birthing in a hospital, a birthing center, or even at home.

Privacy

Consider whether you would like the door closed or open. If open, the door curtain can be closed. Window shades and curtains can be closed or open according to your choice. If you need to use the bathroom and wish total privacy, don't hesitate to say so.

Minimal Traffic

You may choose to have family or close friends with you while you labor. This is often fine unless it begins to interfere with your comfort or with the staff's ability to perform their duties. It is usually best to keep company to a minimum as labor progresses, to aid in your concentration. Children may even be permitted in the labor room, but it is best if someone is present to personally take care of each child and remove the child from the room when necessary.

Mobility

Remaining as mobile as you can greatly aids your progress in labor. Movement and gravity help to bring your baby down quicker than staying in bed. Keep this in mind when presented with interventions that will cause you to remain in bed for long periods.

Personal Items

Bring with you small personal items that will make you more comfortable. Consider a favorite photo or other item to use as a focal point, music you have chosen to hear, a favorite pillow, robe, slippers, etc.

Room Temperature

There is much that can be done to bring the temperature to your comfort. Ask to have the thermostat adjusted, if you are uncomfortable. A doula can also use hot packs, cold packs, warmed blankets and towels, cool cloths, even an overhead warmer if you wish.

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