Books – I have read a few books to help prepare my mind and emotions for birth and the only one I can truly recommend that I have read is Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth. This is a MUST READ for pregnant mommas.
Childbirth class – If it is your first time preparing for birth, I highly recommend finding a good childbirth class. I took a 5 week class offered by my Midwives when I was pregnant with my first and it was so helpful, mentally and physically! Also, talk to as many mommas as you can and listen to their birth experiences. It’s good to hear how different each birth can be!
Evening primrose – Evening primrose may help in softening the cervix to prepare for birth. I started taking an evening primrose supplement daily when I reached 37 weeks but you need to check with your care provider before taking this supplement. Since my first was born past his due date I also inserted the oil vaginally when I reached 40 weeks. DO NOT take evening primrose oil along with medications that also slow blood clotting! Stop taking it immediately if you experience any symptoms.
Raspberry Leaf Tea – Raspberry leaf tea is known to help tone the uterus. It will not make you go into labor. I drank raspberry leaf tea my entire first pregnancy. With this one I only recently started drinking it because I had been drinking other tea to boost my immune system and soothe my sore throat when I was sick. Traditional Medicinals has a good one and I have also bought loose leaf from Mountain Rose Herbs. I preferred it iced during my summer pregnancies. Again, you should still check with your care provider before taking something new during pregnancy.
Chiropractic Care – When I hit 37 weeks with all my pregnancies I started going to the chiropractor every week instead of every other. I want to eliminate any possible obstructions to baby coming. It is so important to keep your spine and pelvis in alignment so baby has a clear path and so all your nerves are communicating properly! If you’re interested in learning more on this topic, read this interview with my chiropractor.
Exercise – Your body is already undergoing significant changes to prepare it for birth. You can help facilitate these natural adaptations by practicing breathing and pain management positions and relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles. Ali has provided some exercises to do in the last few weeks of pregnancy in her Prenatal Program which I have been doing.
Homeopathy – I’m not really into homeopathy and honestly have not studied it. I have tried those Chamomilla teething tablets and they never worked for my babies. However, my Midwives give their mommas some tablets that are said to help prepare your body for labor and birth so I took them with my first two pregnancies since they were given to me. Check with your care provider before taking any new supplements. Pulsatilla for optimal fetal positioning. Caulophyllum for contractibility of the uterus. Gelsemium for calming your mood (partner can take this too). Cimicifuga for uterine toning.
