How to Prepare for a Positive Birth Experience

Planning for a Beautiful Birth - What You Can Do to Prepare

While no one can predict exactly how your labor and delivery will unfold, there are things you can do to help create a more positive, empowering experience—one where you feel supported, informed, and in control.

Let’s explore the steps you can take before and during labor to help you feel more prepared, confident, and cared for, no matter what surprises may come your way.

Choose the Right Care Provider

Finding a care provider you trust and connect with is key. Whether you’re working with an OB-GYN or a midwife, choose someone whose values and approach align with yours—and who makes you feel heard and respected.

A great relationship with your provider builds trust, which helps you feel more comfortable and secure as labor approaches.

Take a Childbirth Class

Childbirth classes are among the best ways to reduce fear and build confidence. They’ll walk you through the stages of labor, pain management options, medical interventions, and what to expect postpartum.

Bonus tip: Add a newborn care and breastfeeding class to your list. Understanding how to care for your baby and feed them in those early days makes the transition to motherhood feel less overwhelming.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Labor is physical, emotional, and sometimes intense. Practicing relaxation techniques—like deep breathing, visualization, or meditation can help you manage discomfort and stress during labor.

Try:

• Guided meditations or birth affirmations

• Slow, steady breathing exercises

• Gentle prenatal yoga or stretching

The more you practice before labor, the easier it becomes to use these tools when needed.

Surround Yourself with Supportive People

Your birth team matters. Make sure you have people around you who are calm, encouraging, and there to support your needs. This might be your partner, a doula, a close friend, or a family member.

Whoever you choose, make sure they know your birth preferences and how to best support you during labor and delivery.

Stay Flexible with Your Birth Plan

Birth is unpredictable, and flexibility is key. Think of your birth plan as a wish list, not a script. It helps communicate your preferences, but it’s okay to change direction if things evolve.

The goal isn’t to stick to the plan at all costs—it’s to make informed decisions that keep you and your baby safe and supported.

Learn to Advocate for Yourself

You have the right to ask questions, say no, and make informed decisions about your care. Don’t be afraid to speak up.

Tips to help you advocate:

• Write down your preferences in advance

• Ask for clarification if something is unclear

• Use your support person to communicate your wishes when you’re focused on labor

Empowerment during birth starts with being informed and having your voice heard.

How Partners Can Support During Labor and Birth

You play a huge role in creating a calm, supported environment if you're the partner. Here’s how you can be a rock during labor:

Be present and engaged. Show up fully. Offer comfort, hold her hand, encourage her breathing, and just be there. Even silent support can be powerful.

Know her birth plan. Please familiarize yourself with her preferences and help communicate them to the care team when needed.

Communicate with providers. Ask questions, clarify procedures, and speak up if something doesn’t align with her wishes—especially if she’s unable to advocate for herself in the moment.

Assist with pain relief. Use massage, counter-pressure, warm compresses, and soothing words. If she’s using medication or wants to explore options, help navigate that process.

Offer comfort measures. Keep her hydrated, grab extra pillows, play calming music, or adjust the room lighting. Small things make a big impact.

Be a calm voice. Labor can be intense. Remind her that she’s doing great, help her stay focused, and be her anchor in the storm.

Support after birth. Once the baby arrives, keep advocating. Ensure she’s comfortable, ask about pain relief, and support skin-to-skin and breastfeeding. She may need help managing basic needs in those first few hours.

A Birth Experience That Feels Right for You

There’s no one "right" way to give birth. The most fulfilling birth experiences are the ones where moms feel seen, supported, and empowered, regardless of how the journey unfolds.

Most importantly, what matters most is a safe outcome for you and your baby. Preparation helps. Support helps. And feeling informed and cared for throughout the process can make all the difference.

You’ve got this, Mama. And your birth experience can be as powerful and beautiful as the life you bring into the world.