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By Andrew Lombardozzi, DC

When preparing to give birth, every woman is faced with the decision of natural versus assisted childbirth. When making this decision, it is important to take into consideration as much information as possible on both options. It’s also important to know what’s fact, and what’s hyperbole. Much of the information surrounding natural childbirth is clouded by myth and exaggeration, while some of it is blatantly false. By disseminating the fact from the fiction, it makes it simpler to choose the best possible option for you.

It has been repeated over and over that natural childbirth should be avoided, as the actual birthing process is the worst pain that can be experienced. Admittedly, the birth process will likely never be pain-free, but it must also be taken into consideration that pain is the body’s alarm system. While certain types of pain can be expected during birth, strong medication can cause a numbness or lack of sensitivity that will dull this system and prevent the awareness of pains and discomfort that may signal a problem with the labor. While the thought of treating this pain medically can be tempting, the side effects of many pain medications can prove harmful to both mother and child. Natural remedies such as herbs and massage can help ease labor pains without introducing harmful drugs into the system. While these methods may not completely alleviate the pain, it can allow the mother to cope more effectively without the potential of overlooking important body signals.

Many women also believe that natural childbirth means staying at home and giving birth in bed, with no professional assistance. This is wildly inaccurate. While many women do choose to stay at home (simply for comforts sake), there are specialized birthing centers that offer all of the comforts of home, along with the security that comes from working with trained, certified professionals. There are also midwife services that will travel to the home to provide the same level of security and preparedness. Midwifery is a highly regulated practice in the United States, and any woman choosing to use this method can work closely with their midwife to develop a safe, reliable plan not only for the labor process, but the entire course of their pregnancy.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing natural childbirth is preparation. Enduring labor without medication is an admirable goal, but there are steps that can be taken during pregnancy to prepare the body for the strain and stress of the process. Regular, light exercise and stretching can tone muscles that are integral to the birthing process, which can ease pain and shorten the recovery period. Yogic exercise is highly useful in this respect, as the gentle movements and stretches can be easily altered to accommodate a growing body. Eating wholesome foods and taking natural vitamins is also important, as the mother’s body provides nourishment to her growing child. As much of the nutrients she takes in will go to the baby, the amount of these vitamins and minerals will need to increase to compensate for the loss.

The discomforts of pregnancy call also be treated without the use of dangerous drugs. Herbal remedies, meditation and plenty of rest can contribute greatly to the well-being of a mother-to-be.

About the Author: Dr. Andrew Lombardozzi is a

Richmond Virginia chiropractor

who believes in spreading the chiropractic message through educational seminars, lots of patient education, and his

chiropractic blog

.

Source:

isnare.com

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