24. Understanding the Stages of Labor and How to Work With Our Bodies

Today we are talking to you about how you can prepare for your upcoming labor and delivery. We cover everything from the different stages of labor and what to expect in each one, to optimal laboring positions whether you choose to get an epidural or not. We touch on the emotional side of things including who is going to provide you with support during the duration of your labor and delivery and how you want them to talk to you throughout. Finally we cover the different pain management options and how people with rituals tend to cope a lot better than those without.

Birth is really unique to each person and each birth journey can be so different. The one thing that we try to emphasize in this episode is that labor really is intuitive. We are just trying to give you tools so that your toolbox is full. When you get into labor we want you to remember these things and recognize them as normal. We want you to know that you are okay during labor and make sure you have plenty of options so that you are able to find what works best for you.

If you know other women that are going to be birthing a child soon, put this in your Instagram story and tag them and @expectingandempowered so they can feel empowered during their delivery. This episode has more information than we ever got in preparation for our births and this info is for free. If you could help us out by texting it to a new mama we would really appreciate that!

Free digital download

Prepping for Labor + Delivery Online Course - for 25% off, enter PODCAST25 at checkout

The Birth Partner 5th Edition: A Complete Guide to Childbirth for Dads, Partners, Doulas, and Other Labor Companions by Penny Simkin

Links & Resources

Expecting and Empowered YouTube Channel

Expecting and Empowered App

Expecting and Empowered Website

Expecting and Empowered Instagram