Preparing your birth space.

How can you best prepare your home for natural childbirth? This process includes creating a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment in which to labor and to welcome your baby. Here are a few things to think about:

• Choose a quiet, private, comfortable place for your birth. Consider things like accessibility, proximity to the bathroom, and utilities.

• Gather supplies you’ll need for birth. Ask your midwife for a supply list! This list may include clean linens, towels, pillows, a waterproof mattress cover, disposable chux pads, and other comfort measures for birth.

• Arrange the room to accommodate your needs during labor and delivery. This may include space for a birth pool, a nearby bed or mattress, adjustable lighting to create a calm ambiance, and adequate ventilation.

• Create a relaxing atmosphere. Use soothing elements like soft music, essential oils or aromatherapy diffusers, and dim lights to make a space that promotes your comfort and relaxation.

• Prepare healthy snacks and drinks for energy for you and your birth team. High-protein snacks, electrolyte drinks, and easy-to-digest foods will be beneficial.

• Discuss your plan and preferences with your midwife, doula, partner, and support team to be sure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities during labor and delivery.

• Don’t forget to clean your kitchen, bathroom, and your tub. You and your birth team will be using these spaces during labor.

• Have a list of emergency contacts including your midwife’s phone number, hospital information, friends you can call for childcare, and emergency services in an easy-to-find visible space.

• Familiarize yourself with relaxation techniques and practice these before you go into labor so they become your go-tos during childbirth.

• Prepare supplies you’ll need for the postpartum period like sanitary pads, comfortable clothing, diapering supplies, and breastfeeding supplies.

Taking time to plan a supportive and comfortable home birth space will promote a positive natural birth experience for you and your baby.