10. Home Sweet Home Birth: A Fun and Fearless Guide to Preparing for Your Birth at Home

I’m not going to lie, friends, it was rough writing those blog posts about cesareans. So many feelings came up, like frustration and sadness. I’m glad to finally be able to move on and talk about something that I’m passionate about again! 

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So, onward to my upbeat and happy post about HOME BIRTH! 🤩 When I was an RN, especially an OB RN, I never could have imagined myself as a proponent of home birth. As you can probably understand, nurses and the medical establishment are NOT huge home birth advocates. In fact, I used to look down on it as risky and reckless! But the fact of the matter is that I just didn’t know anything about home birth, or really, physiological birth in general. Birth was something that doctors managed. *cringe* How embarrassing. Please don’t hold that against me😆 But here I am, reformed, informed, and ready to spread the word about the beauty and safety of having a natural birth at home. 

Whether you plan on hiring a midwife or freebirthing like I did, I’m going to discuss how you can prepare for an intuitive, autonomous, empowering birth, right in your own home! I just came out with my free Home Birth Prep Guide, so be sure to grab that when you’re done reading here because this post and that guide go together and there are workbook pages included to get you started. YAY!

So, you’re set on having a home birth and I couldn’t be more excited for you!! Even if you’re just mulling the idea over in your head, the fact that you’re considering this option can be so empowering. So, let’s dig in!

Preparing for a home birth can be a thrilling experience, but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many things to consider, such as mindset work, staying healthy and exercising, educating yourself, collecting all of the home birth tools you'll need, and prepping your partner. However, with a little planning, preparation, and a sense of humor, you can make your home birth experience both enjoyable and empowering.

Mindset Work and Overcoming Fears

One of the most important things you can do to prepare for a home birth is to work on your mindset. Fear and anxiety can be big barriers to a successful home birth, so it's essential to address any fears or concerns you may have early and often! Start by acknowledging your fears and talking to your midwife about them. Dig deep into why you have these fears and face them head on!! Learn everything you can about this specific fear. Learn so much about it that it doesn’t even scare you anymore. It’s just another thing. 

Once you've identified your fears, it's important to work on reframing your thoughts. One way to do this is to visualize your ideal birth experience. Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a calm and peaceful environment, surrounded by loved ones, and feeling confident and strong. Visualization can help you create a positive mindset and reduce anxiety. 

Practicing mindfulness and doing things with intention will help you have a successful home birth. It involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. When you feel overwhelmed or anxious, take a few minutes to focus on your breath and the sensations in your body. This can help you feel more grounded and centered.

 I dive more into mindset work and fears in my upcoming childbirth education course that will be dropping this summer, so stay tuned!

Knowing Your "Why"

Knowing your "why" is an essential part of preparing for a home birth. It is important to take the time to reflect on your reasons for choosing this path, as it can help you stay focused and motivated throughout your pregnancy and birth experience.

To begin, ask yourself why you want a home birth. Is it because you feel more comfortable in your own space, or do you want more control over the birthing process? Maybe you want to avoid medical interventions and feel that a home birth will give you the best chance at a natural, physiological birth. Or perhaps you simply feel that a home birth is the right choice for you and your family.

Whatever your reasons may be, it's important to have a clear understanding of them so that you can communicate them to your support team. This can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Once you've identified your "why," use it as a source of inspiration and motivation throughout your pregnancy and birth. Whenever you encounter challenges or doubts, remind yourself of the reasons why you chose a home birth in the first place. This can help you stay focused and empowered as you work towards the birth of your baby.

Remember, your "why" is personal to you, and there is no right or wrong reason for choosing a home birth. Whether you're seeking a more natural birth experience, greater control over your birthing process, or simply feel that a home birth is the best choice for you and your family, knowing your "why" can help you stay motivated, focused, and empowered throughout your pregnancy and birth journey.

Staying Healthy and Exercising

Staying healthy and active during pregnancy is essential for a smooth and successful home birth. Regular exercise can help improve your endurance, reduce stress, and prepare your body for labor and birth by keeping your body strong and flexible. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise each day, such as walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, or weight training. It doesn’t take much to make a big impact on your health!

Eating a nutritious and balanced diet is also crucial for a healthy pregnancy and home birth. Focus on whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality proteins. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine and alcohol(duh) .

Educate Yourself

One of the most important aspects of preparing for a home birth is educating yourself about the process of childbirth. It's essential to understand what to expect during labor, how to cope with pain, and what your options are for pain relief.

That's why I'm excited to announce that my all-encompassing childbirth education course will be coming out this summer! This course covers everything from the basics of childbirth to advanced techniques for managing pain and complications. You'll learn about different birthing positions, breathing techniques, and natural pain relief methods. I even cover nutrition, your postpartum period and breastfeeding. Truly ALL ENCOMPASSING. 

But why is it so important to educate yourself about childbirth? For starters, it can help you feel more confident and empowered during labor. When you understand what's happening in your body and what to expect, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your care.

Additionally, childbirth education can help you prepare for unexpected situations. While we all hope for a smooth and uncomplicated birth, the reality is that complications can arise. Knowing what to do in these situations can help you stay calm and make informed decisions.

Finally, childbirth education can help you have a more positive birth experience overall. When you feel empowered and supported during labor, you're more likely to have a positive memory of the experience, regardless of how the birth itself goes.

So if you're preparing for a home birth, I highly recommend taking a comprehensive childbirth education course. And if you're interested in my course, stay tuned for more information!

Besides an out-of-hospital childbirth education course, I recommend listening to podcasts about birth and reading a few books. Here is a list of my faves:

Podcasts:

Birthing Instincts with Dr. Stu and Blyss

Down To Birth Show

Happy Homebirth Podcast

Books:

The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin

Made For This by Mary Haseltine

Real Food for Pregnancy by Lily Nichols

Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin

The Thinking Woman’s Guide to a Better Birth by Hency Goer

Collect Your Home Birth Tools

Once you've gotten your mindset in the right place and made sure that you and your partner are healthy and prepared for labor, it's time to start gathering all of the tools you'll need for the actual birth. This includes things like:

• Birth pool: If you're planning on having a water birth, you'll need to rent or buy a birth pool. There are plenty of options out there, from inflatable pools to more permanent fixtures. Just make sure that the pool is sturdy and clean, and that you have a pump and hose to inflate and fill it. Here’s one I like because it includes a cupholder, grips and a small stool in it. Birth Pool In A Box

• Birthing ball: A birthing ball is a large exercise ball that you can sit on during labor. It helps to open up your pelvis and can provide relief from contractions. Plus, it's just fun to bounce around on! The Birth Ball

• Peanut ball: These can help with opening the pelvis and with side lying or to get legs into asymmetric positions for laboring: Peanut Ball

• Tarp or plastic sheeting: Birth is messy, so you'll want to protect your floors and furniture with a tarp or plastic sheeting. You can also use this to cover the birth pool and keep it clean before you're ready to use it. Go grab a cheap shower curtain from walmart or grab this one here: Plastic Shower Liner

• Towels: You'll need plenty of towels to dry off yourself and your baby after the birth. Consider getting some old towels that you don't mind getting stained or ruined.

• A comb: Many women squeeze a comb to use the “gate theory” to “confuse” the brain. Gate theory basically says that you can confuse your brain by providing other sensations from other parts of the body during labor aka squeezing a comb in your hand. Bamboo Hair Comb

• Heating pad or hot water bottle: Heat can be really soothing during labor, so make sure you have a heating pad or hot water bottle on hand. Remember: electricity and water don’t mix, so keep this away from the birth tub, but this would be super helpful while you’re on dry land: Electric Heating Pad

• Ice cold rags: Remember the gate theory? Ice cold rags can help with this, too. Try placing them on the back of your neck during labor. Just take some rags and put them in a cooler with some water and ice et VOILA! 

• TENS unit: This sends electric pulses through the skin that can elicit the release of natural pain relieving hormones. This one is highly rate and on sale! TENS Unit

• Essential oils: Some women find that certain scents can help them relax during labor. Lavender, peppermint, and clary sage are popular choices. This kit includes 8 Organic oils: Lavender, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Frankincense and Orange: Essential Oils

• Snacks and drinks: Labor can be a long process, so make sure you have plenty of snacks and drinks on hand to keep your energy up. Think nuts, fruit, honey sticks, and coconut water. Honey Sticks, Coconut Water, Dried Fruits + Seeds

Prepping Your Partner

While you're busy getting all of your tools and supplies together, don't forget about your partner! They'll be your main support during labor, so it's important that they're prepared and know what to expect.

Start by talking to your partner about his role during labor. Does he want to be hands-on, or would he prefer to stay in the background? Make sure he knows what you expect from them and what kind of support you'll need.

Consider taking a childbirth education class together (like mine.) This will give your partner a better understanding of what happens during labor and how he can best support you. Plus, it's a great opportunity to bond and prepare for the birth together.

Finally, make sure your partner knows how to use all of the tools and supplies you've gathered. Show them how to inflate the birth pool, set up the birthing ball, and use the heating pad or TENS unit. This way, he’ll feel confident and prepared on the big day.

Having Fun with It All

Preparing for a home birth can be a lot of work, but it can also be a lot of fun! Don't be afraid to inject a little bit of humor and lightheartedness into the process.

For example, consider hosting a "birthing pool party" to get your friends and family involved. Invite everyone over to help you set up the birth pool, and then enjoy some snacks and drinks while you chat about your upcoming birth.

Or, create a birth playlist with all of your favorite songs to listen to during labor. You can even ask your friends and family to contribute their favorite songs, too! Just make sure you vet them. I don’t think having Michael Jackson’s Thriller come on while you’re trying to get into the zone would be very helpful. (Great song though😆)

Another fun idea is to have a "labor rehearsal" with your partner. Set aside a day to practice different labor positions and coping techniques, and make it a fun and silly time for you two to get close and bond before your birth. 

Preparing for a home birth can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By adopting the right mindset and taking the necessary steps to stay healthy, collect your tools, and prepare your partner, you can ensure a positive and empowering birth experience.

Remember to focus on your "why" and what motivates you to have a home birth. Whether it's a desire for a more autonomous and intuitive experience or a need for control and privacy, keeping your purpose in mind can help you stay committed and overcome any fears or doubts.

Don't forget to have fun along the way! Celebrate each milestone and accomplishment, whether it's finishing a prenatal yoga class, your childbirth education course or assembling your birthing pool. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can offer encouragement and help lighten the mood.

With preparation and mindset, your home birth will be a beautiful and empowering experience. Trust in your body, your partner, and your support team, and know that you are capable of bringing your baby into the world in the way that feels most comfortable and safe for you.

Haven’t grabbed my FREE Home Birth Prep Guide? Click HERE!

Remember, none of this is medical advice. Always consult your intuition before making any decisions about your birth.