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The excitement and anticipation leading up to childbirth is certainly unlike any other experience in life. But, as your pregnancy progresses, it’s normal to feel anxious about the labor process and the impact it has on you and your baby. That’s why J. Harley Barrow, Jr., M.D. at the Center for Women in Mountain Home, Arkansas encourages all patients to take an active role in their family planning to prepare for a healthy labor.

5 Family Planning Tips to Help Pregnant Women Prepare for a Healthy Childbirth

1. Build Strength Through Exercise   

There are many fitness options that are safe for pregnancy that can help ease your labor. With the approval of your OBGYN, you may want to explore pre-natal pilates or yoga programs to help improve flexibility and build core muscles. Yoga may also help you develop better breathing practices to help with your delivery. It’s also recommended pregnant women practice kegels to reduce pelvic stress during birth.

family planning2. Take a Class

Childbirthing classes, such as Lamaze, are great for helping you learn about the birthing process and what to expect. You and your partner can gain valuable information on positioning and breathing.

3. Set the Stage in Advance  

Having a positive mental state during labor can go a long way in helping your body relax. As such, it’s a good idea to know ways to reduce stress once you go into labor. For example, you should have a plan in place, a bag packed, and all the baby items you need set up in your home ahead of time. This way, you won’t be worried about what happens after the delivery.

4. Build a Support Team

While you’ll be doing a lot of work during the labor, it’s helpful to have a support system in place. Having close, trusted family members in the delivery room, for example, can help with stress and provide distraction. Your partner may also be able to give you massages during delivery that help relieve tension and pain.  

5. Plan for Pain Management  

While delivery may be a painful experience, there are many ways to mitigate discomfort. For natural solutions, you can meditate, position your body, apply heat, and control breathing to reduce birthing pains. And, if needed, you can talk to your doctor about family planning and learn about the best options for pain relief.

With knowledge, you can make your labor a more pleasant and healthy experience. If you’re looking for pregnancy health solutions in Mountain Home, Arkansas, J. Harley Barrow, Jr., M.D. at the Center for Women can help you explore your options. To schedule an appointment with this trusted obstetrics and family planning specialist, call (870) 425-7300 today.

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