As you know, when I get into something, I go ALL IN. My enneagram is 3 (achiever) if that helps you understand me better, haha. Birth research was no different. Here are some of my favorite resources if you’re looking into having a natural, unmedicated birth!
Books
- Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin
- Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin
- Gentle Birth, Gentle Mothering: The Wisdom and Science of Gentle Choices in Pregnancy, Birth and Parenting by Dr Sarah J Buckley
Courses
- Evidence Based Birth® Childbirth Class with Cleveland Natural Birth
- Hypnobabies – At home course
- Centering with Neighborhood Family Practice
Documentaries
- The business of being born on Netflix
Wellness
- Chiropractic (Especially someone certified in the Webster Technique) – I went to Peak Health & Wellness in Fairlawn
- Acupuncture – My girl Candace will take care of you!
- BirthFit – Also Candace – she’s the best
- Prenatal massage – The Womb Wellness Center
- Spinning Babies Daily Activities
Products
- Birth ball – this is the one I have. I bounced on it my entire pregnancy and early labor. Olive loves bouncing on it to this day
- Supportive flip flops – I loved these. My feet swelled and bending over to tie shoes toward the end was a no go. I needed slip-on shoes that were also comfy!
- Labor gown – I don’t know about you, but I hate hospital gowns. They’re ugly and too big but also too tight around the neck all at the same time. Wearing your own clothes during labor is super nice. I used this gown from Pretty Pushers and it was perfect! Open in the front and low in the back giving access to everything the medical staff could need. I chose black in case blood or other fluids would get on it and stain.
- Birth Affirmation Cards – I loved these!
- Comfort Items for the Labor Room – I had string lights, tea lights, essential oils that I liked the smell of, lip balm etc
- Birth Playlist – Here’s mine but everyone’s taste is different. Some people want energetic music. I wanted chill, easy listening and songs that had sentimental meaning to me and my husband
What other natural birth resources have you loved? What else are you looking for?