Hey! I want to share a little secret with you. If you’re feeling anxious or uneasy about all the unpredictable things that might happen during childbirth, you’re definitely not the only one. I remember spending a lot of time researching and trying to prepare myself before delivering my son, but I still felt nervous. There are so many unknowns, and it’s normal to wonder if you’ll ever feel ready.
But here’s the thing—whether you’re ready or not, the baby will come. If you’re pregnant, yours will too. So let’s address some common myths and fears about childbirth to ease your mind.
Let’s talk about something that’s probably been on your mind: the possibility of pooping during labor. It’s not as uncommon as you might think, and while it might seem embarrassing, it really shouldn’t surprise you. The muscles used to push out a baby are the same ones that help empty your bowels. In the past, women were given enemas during labor, but this has fallen out of favor because they don’t provide any real benefits. Honestly, at 40 weeks, an enema is the last thing you’d want.
While pooping during delivery is possible, it likely won’t happen because your body naturally empties your bowels before labor. In my own experience, I went to the bathroom many times before I even started pushing. And if it does happen, you probably won’t notice. Experienced nurses and midwives handle these things discreetly, so you can focus on the task at hand. Once you’re in active labor, trust me, you won’t care about anything except delivering your baby.
Another common worry for many women not planning a home birth is the fear of giving birth in unexpected places, like in the car. This crossed my mind too, especially during my second pregnancy. We almost had to stop the car when my daughter was ready to arrive. Luckily, we reached the birth center just in time! However, it’s quite rare for first-time moms to wait too long to head to the hospital. You’re more likely to arrive too early. But if you’re curious about what to do if you give birth in a car, there are resources available with step-by-step instructions.
If your baby is still positioned butt-first as your due date approaches, you’ve got some options. You can either prepare for a gentle Cesarean or find a provider experienced in delivering breech babies vaginally. Vaginal breech delivery is another form of normal that’s become less common. If you decide to attempt this, having a skilled provider can significantly improve your chances of success.
Now, about back labor—when labor pains focus in the lower back, it’s often due to the baby’s position. If you suspect you’re experiencing back labor, get moving. Lying on your back might worsen the discomfort. Trying different positions or applying pressure to the lower back can help alleviate the pain. Also, comforting techniques like using a heated rice sock or hot water in the shower can make a big difference.
As for “stalled labor,” changes in guidelines mean what counts as “normal” labor has shifted. Staying relaxed and minimizing stress is key in managing labor. If you do have a pause in progress, natural remedies like nipple stimulation may help restart contractions.
And about tearing during delivery: while it might make you cringe, it’s natural for the vagina and perineum to stretch during birth. Tearing varies in severity, with most cases being minor. Perineal massage and opting for a natural childbirth can reduce the risk of tearing. Although I had a second-degree tear, I didn’t feel it, and it healed quickly. Our bodies are resilient!
Getting informed is crucial. A week-by-week pregnancy guide from a natural perspective can be a helpful resource. It’s packed with advice from medical professionals and provides empowering information for anyone expecting. Being informed can help you feel more confident about your birthing experience, even if things don’t go exactly as planned.
I hope every expecting mother gets the support she needs for a positive birth experience. What are your concerns about pregnancy or childbirth? Let’s talk about it.
