If you’re considering a natural birth, one aspect to prepare for is crowning. This is the moment when a baby’s head starts to become visible through the birth canal, signifying that birth is imminent. In this article, we’ll explore this aspect of natural birth, from how to prepare and manage pain to the benefits and drawbacks of this approach. Let’s dive in.
Understanding the concept of natural birth crowning
Before we dive into the details, let’s define what we mean by natural birth crowning. Crowning refers to the process in which the baby’s head starts to emerge through the vaginal opening, marking the transition from the second stage of labor to the third stage. Natural birth supporters view this as a pivotal and beautiful moment that mothers and partners should be prepared for and support in any way possible. From a medical standpoint, crowning is a critical stage, and it’s important to create a safe, supportive environment for this to occur smoothly, as well as monitoring the baby’s progress.
The stages of natural birth crowning
The process of crowning occurs in stages, and there are different signs and sensations that accompany each one of those:
- Early labor: A period of frequent, mild to moderate contractions, during which the cervix thins and opens up. This stage can last for several hours or days.
- Active labor: Stronger, more intense contractions begin. The cervix opens to approximately 10 centimeters during this period. This stage can last for several hours or more depending on the woman’s situation.
- Transition: This stage marks the period before crowning where contractions become even stronger and more frequent. This stage can last for 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Crowning: The baby’s head starts to push through the vaginal opening, signaling the start of the third stage. This stage can last for several minutes or more, and it requires significant effort from the mother to push through to the end.
How to prepare for natural birth crowning
Preparation for natural birth crowning can help minimize the discomfort and anxiety that can come with labor. Here are some things that can help:
- Choose your birth team carefully: Having a trusted medical team that you trust and communicate with is essential for ensuring a smooth labor experience.
- Understand and practice breathing techniques: Lamaze, Hypnobirthing, and other techniques to manage breathing and relaxation can help ease tension and reduce pain during crowning.
- Stay active and healthy during pregnancy: Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and health care help prepare the mother’s body for the demands of natural birth.
- Consider hiring a Doula: A Doula is a trained professional who provides physical and emotional support to moms during labor. If you want someone with you but not a member of the medical team, hiring a Doula may be the solution for you.
Pain management techniques during natural birth crowning
During crowning, it’s essential to have a plan in place for pain management. Here are some techniques that can help:
- Breathing techniques: As noted above, deep breathing exercises can help you manage pain in the moment.
- Relaxation techniques: In addition to breathing, certain relaxation techniques can help your muscles relax during labor. You can consider choosing yoga or progressive muscle relaxation techniques.
- Water therapy: This can include taking a shower or bath or using a birthing pool to provide relief. Warm water helps relax tired muscles and calm the mind.
- Massage and counterpressure: Pressure applied to specific points in the body can help alleviate pain and tension. Clutching onto a pillow while someone pushes on your lower back can also be helpful.
- Medical interventions such as epidurals are commonly used during the crowning process, and you can discuss this with your doctor if it becomes necessary for you
The pros and cons of natural birth crowning
While every woman’s experience of crowning is unique, there are some general benefits and drawbacks to consider:
- Benefits:
- Crowning is a key moment in natural childbirth, and many mothers view it as a beautiful moment of connection with their newborn.
- Research indicates that natural childbirth can lead to less intervention, fewer infections and other complications during childbirth, and better outcomes for both mother and baby
- It has also been found that natural birth may help regulate the baby’s vital signs and help them breastfeed better
- Drawbacks:
- Natural childbirth can be very painful, and many women find the experience overwhelming and daunting.
- As with any natural birth, there is a potential for complications and extended labor periods, which can create more complications down the line.
- There is also the risk of needing medical interventions, which many women wishes to avoid.
Comparing natural birth crowning with assisted delivery
In certain circumstances, assisted delivery may be necessary when the baby is in distress and needs to be delivered quickly. In those cases, medical interventions such as the use of forceps or a vacuum may be necessary. Comparing these interventions with natural birth is difficult and requires individual considerations as there is no single-size-fits-all solution to labor. Both have their unique benefits and drawbacks, and the type of delivery chosen depends on your situation.
Tips for a successful natural birth crowning experience
If you’re considering natural birth crowning, here are some tips for a successful experience:
- Stay informed and educated about the birthing process so you can make informed decisions.
- Find a supportive medical team of professionals to help you throughout the labor and delivery process.
- Prepare for pain management by researching and practicing various methods.
- Stay calm and keep a positive attitude by envisioning a healthy delivery outcome for both you and your baby
- Lastly, stay flexible and be ready to make adjustments and adaptations according to how your body responds during labor and delivery.
Common mistakes to avoid during natural birth crowning
Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when attempting a natural birth crowning:
- Failure to communicate with your medical team, including your partner or doula
- Overplanning or rigidly adhering to a specific birth plan, making it difficult to adapt to changing circumstances
- Failure to manage pain or stress levels, which can make the experience more traumatic and overwhelming than necessary.
- Not having enough support during the birthing process. Doulas and midwives are an excellent way to get this much-needed support and guidance to have a successful birth
The role of a doula in supporting natural birth crowning
A doula is a trained professional who provides physical and emotional assistance for mothers during the childbirth process. Doulas play an essential role in natural birth crowning by providing continuous support throughout labor and delivery, from helping with pain management techniques to staying calm and focused through the birthing process. Doulas can also help spouses to be active participants in the experience and can help support their emotional needs during the process.
How partners can be involved in the process of natural birth crowning
Partners can play a vital role in supporting mothers during natural birth crowning. This includes:
- Being present and available throughout the labor and delivery process
- Assisting with pain management techniques to help reduce discomfort and anxiety
- Being a vocal advocate for the mother’s wishes with the medical team
- Providing emotional and physical support throughout the birthing process not just to the mother but to the newborn as well.
Recovering from natural birth crowning: What to expect
After the birth, expect a sore perineum and a couple of stitches if you have any tears. This discomfort and recovery period lasts for the immediate two weeks, and then your body will slowly start to recuperate. After delivery, bleeding is normal and heavy for the first week or so after birth. You’ll be given detailed instructions for how to care for yourself after giving birth, including hygiene and pain management tips. It is essential to rest as much as possible and get all the vital post-birth care to ensure a smooth recovery.
The impact of natural birth crowning on postpartum depression and anxiety
Research indicates that women who go through natural birth experiences can feel more connected and empowered. This sense of empowerment can help support their well-being during the postpartum period by fostering a sense of self-efficacy and confidence. Compared with women who had medicated or assisted childbirth, those who opted for natural birth were less likely to experience postpartum depression and anxiety, according to some studies. However, postpartum depression is a medical condition that can occur regardless of the childbirth experience, and women who struggle with depression should seek medical help as soon as possible.
Stories and experiences of mothers who have gone through natural birth crowning
Every woman’s birthing story and experience is unique. Some mothers have shared their stories of natural birth crowning to inspire and encourage others or warn against some common pitfalls. All of these stories have different aspects, but the one thing that connects them all is the pain and the miracle of birth, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Resources for further education on natural birth crowning
If you are looking to know more about natural birth crowning, below is a list of resources available:
- National Association of Doulas: The organization offers resources, training opportunities, and information for Doulas.
- Lamaze International: Lamaze offers classes and resources for childbirth education and information on natural birth crowning.
- International childbirth education association: The organization provides education and resources for childbirth educators and advocates for natural birth experiences.
- Birthing from within: a manual of holistic obstetrics: The book provides information on traditional birth practices and current methods of obstetric care
Final Thoughts
Regardless of your birthing choice, remember to stay informed, focus, stay flexible, and trust the process. The concept of natural birth crowning can be daunting, but with proper preparation and support, can lead to a beautiful and empowering bonding experience with your baby throughout the one of life’s most significant miracles.
