Juliana Parker is an actively practicing labor and delivery nurse with over 19 years of experience helping women through their pregnancies and deliveries. As a trusted expert in the field, she is here to share her top tips to help you prepare for a natural childbirth.
In her book, “25 Tips to Help You Birth Without Medication,” Juliana shares invaluable advice to empower expectant mothers like you. We will explore some of her top tips that will guide you in embracing the beauty and strength of a medication-free childbirth.
Meet Juliana Parker
Juliana Parker is an RN certified in in-patient obstetrics, electronic fetal monitoring, and neonatal resuscitation. She graduated from nursing school in 2004 and has since specialized in labor and delivery.
Over the past 19 years, Juliana has participated in over 5,000 deliveries and assisted over 10,000 expectant parents in their preparation for labor. Known as “My Pregnancy Pro” to many, Juliana started teaching childbirth classes with a passion for helping others have more positive birth experiences. She is a sought-after expert frequently quoted on pregnancy and childbirth sites.
Tip #1: Mental Commitment
When it comes to natural childbirth, your mindset plays a crucial role. Juliana emphasizes the importance of being mentally committed to the natural childbirth process. Taking the time to reflect on your birth preferences and embracing the idea of a medication-free experience can significantly impact your journey.
Studies have shown that individuals who are mentally prepared for natural childbirth are more likely to achieve their goal. So, make a strong mental commitment to this amazing, albeit challenging, experience.
Tip #2: Positive Affirmations About Labor
To maintain a positive mindset during labor, Juliana suggests surrounding yourself with positive affirmations. These gentle reminders can be posted on your mirror, car, refrigerator, computer screen, phone, or anywhere you will see them frequently.
By visualizing childbirth as a positive journey towards welcoming your amazing baby, you can shift your focus and alleviate anxiety. Here are a few examples of positive affirmations about labor:
“She said she could, and she did.”
“My body is strong and prepared.”
“I am excited to prepare for the birth of my baby.”
“My birth will be smooth and easy.”
“I will relax during my childbirth.”
“I trust my body to know what to do.”
“My mind and body relax during contractions.”
Tip #3: Preparing for Obstacles
Labor can present unexpected challenges, and it’s important to have a plan in place. Juliana advises discussing potential obstacles with your support person, whether it’s your partner, midwife, or a trusted family member or friend.
An Advantia Health provider can also help you develop a comfortable plan tailored to your needs and preferences. Together, create strategies to overcome common hurdles and address statements such as:
“I can’t do this.”
“You aren’t helping.”
“I need to try something different.”
“I need something for the pain.”
“Help me.”
“Press harder.”
“Don’t touch me.”
“I don’t know what to do.”
“I don’t want to do this anymore.”
By preparing responses and having open communication with your support person, you can navigate these moments together. Additionally, discuss how you prefer your partner to communicate during moments of silence, whether softly or more loudly to provide calming reassurance.
Tip #4: Learn About Positions
Laboring in different positions can promote comfort and facilitate progress during childbirth. Collaborate with your support person to learn and practice various labor positions. Juliana also suggests you and your partner take childbirth classes together.
Most laboring women shift positions about every 45 minutes, so it’s beneficial to explore different options and create a list of positions that resonate with you. This proactive approach allows you to adapt to your body’s needs and find optimal positions for each stage of labor.
Tip #5: Practicing Massage Techniques
Support persons may experience fatigue during labor, and that’s where massage techniques come in. Juliana recommends incorporating massage tools to ensure you receive the necessary massage even if your partner becomes tired.
Additionally, using a tens unit can help minimize discomfort during contractions. By proactively exploring these techniques and tools, you can enhance relaxation and comfort throughout your childbirth experience. Be sure to practice before the big day.
Tip #6: Relaxation
Between contractions, relaxation is key. Communicate with your labor support person about the importance of helping you relax during these moments.
Relaxation conserves your energy and prepares you for the next contraction. Having a supportive and attentive person by your side can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
Bonus Tip: Find a Support System
One of the best ways to have a positive natural birth is to surround yourself with a strong support system. Choose supportive people who respect your birth preferences and make you feel safe, secure, and cared for. This may include your partner, a midwife, close family members, or friends.
Preparing your support team is crucial to your birthing journey. Often, partners are expected to provide support without proper preparation. It is essential to take the time to educate and involve them in the process. Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs clearly to your whole support team.
If your partner is unwilling or unable to meet your needs, consider consulting with a labor and delivery nurse or finding an alternative support person. Birth support requires knowledge and understanding; just like hiring a running coach for a marathon increases your chances of success.
As you prepare for the extraordinary journey of natural childbirth, remember that the Advantia providers are here to support you at every step. Whether you have questions for Juliana or need care from an Ob-Gyn provider, midwife, or women’s health nurse practitioner–our team is dedicated to helping you have the most empowering and fulfilling birth experience possible.
Juliana Parker is an actively practicing labor and delivery nurse with over 19 years of experience helping women through their pregnancies and deliveries. As a trusted expert in the field, she is here to share her top tips to help you prepare for a natural childbirth.
In her book, “25 Tips to Help You Birth Without Medication,” Juliana shares invaluable advice to empower expectant mothers like you. We will explore some of her top tips that will guide you in embracing the beauty and strength of a medication-free childbirth.
Meet Juliana Parker
Juliana Parker is an RN certified in in-patient obstetrics, electronic fetal monitoring, and neonatal resuscitation. She graduated from nursing school in 2004 and has since specialized in labor and delivery.
Over the past 19 years, Juliana has participated in over 5,000 deliveries and assisted over 10,000 expectant parents in their preparation for labor. Known as “My Pregnancy Pro” to many, Juliana started teaching childbirth classes with a passion for helping others have more positive birth experiences. She is a sought-after expert frequently quoted on pregnancy and childbirth sites.
Tip #1: Mental Commitment
When it comes to natural childbirth, your mindset plays a crucial role. Juliana emphasizes the importance of being mentally committed to the natural childbirth process. Taking the time to reflect on your birth preferences and embracing the idea of a medication-free experience can significantly impact your journey.
Studies have shown that individuals who are mentally prepared for natural childbirth are more likely to achieve their goal. So, make a strong mental commitment to this amazing, albeit challenging, experience.
Tip #2: Positive Affirmations About Labor
To maintain a positive mindset during labor, Juliana suggests surrounding yourself with positive affirmations. These gentle reminders can be posted on your mirror, car, refrigerator, computer screen, phone, or anywhere you will see them frequently.
By visualizing childbirth as a positive journey towards welcoming your amazing baby, you can shift your focus and alleviate anxiety. Here are a few examples of positive affirmations about labor:
“She said she could, and she did.”
“My body is strong and prepared.”
“I am excited to prepare for the birth of my baby.”
“My birth will be smooth and easy.”
“I will relax during my childbirth.”
“I trust my body to know what to do.”
“My mind and body relax during contractions.”
Tip #3: Preparing for Obstacles
Labor can present unexpected challenges, and it’s important to have a plan in place. Juliana advises discussing potential obstacles with your support person, whether it’s your partner, midwife, or a trusted family member or friend.
An Advantia Health provider can also help you develop a comfortable plan tailored to your needs and preferences. Together, create strategies to overcome common hurdles and address statements such as:
“I can’t do this.”
“You aren’t helping.”
“I need to try something different.”
“I need something for the pain.”
“Help me.”
“Press harder.”
“Don’t touch me.”
“I don’t know what to do.”
“I don’t want to do this anymore.”
By preparing responses and having open communication with your support person, you can navigate these moments together. Additionally, discuss how you prefer your partner to communicate during moments of silence, whether softly or more loudly to provide calming reassurance.
Tip #4: Learn About Positions
Laboring in different positions can promote comfort and facilitate progress during childbirth. Collaborate with your support person to learn and practice various labor positions. Juliana also suggests you and your partner take childbirth classes together.
Most laboring women shift positions about every 45 minutes, so it’s beneficial to explore different options and create a list of positions that resonate with you. This proactive approach allows you to adapt to your body’s needs and find optimal positions for each stage of labor.
Tip #5: Practicing Massage Techniques
Support persons may experience fatigue during labor, and that’s where massage techniques come in. Juliana recommends incorporating massage tools to ensure you receive the necessary massage even if your partner becomes tired.
Additionally, using a tens unit can help minimize discomfort during contractions. By proactively exploring these techniques and tools, you can enhance relaxation and comfort throughout your childbirth experience. Be sure to practice before the big day.
Tip #6: Relaxation
Between contractions, relaxation is key. Communicate with your labor support person about the importance of helping you relax during these moments.
Relaxation conserves your energy and prepares you for the next contraction. Having a supportive and attentive person by your side can make a significant difference in your overall experience.
Bonus Tip: Find a Support System
One of the best ways to have a positive natural birth is to surround yourself with a strong support system. Choose supportive people who respect your birth preferences and make you feel safe, secure, and cared for. This may include your partner, a midwife, close family members, or friends.
Preparing your support team is crucial to your birthing journey. Often, partners are expected to provide support without proper preparation. It is essential to take the time to educate and involve them in the process. Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs clearly to your whole support team.
If your partner is unwilling or unable to meet your needs, consider consulting with a labor and delivery nurse or finding an alternative support person. Birth support requires knowledge and understanding; just like hiring a running coach for a marathon increases your chances of success.
As you prepare for the extraordinary journey of natural childbirth, remember that the Advantia providers are here to support you at every step. Whether you have questions for Juliana or need care from an Ob-Gyn provider, midwife, or women’s health nurse practitioner–our team is dedicated to helping you have the most empowering and fulfilling birth experience possible.