When it came time to choose a place to give birth to my first baby, I knew that I wanted her to be born in the comfort of my home, with a full medical staff and all potential necessary medical equipment. Since this was not an option, and we don’t have a birthing center in our state, I had a decision to make – do I attempt to have a home birth, or do I give birth in a hospital?
For many reasons, my husband and I decided that a hospital birth was the best decision for our family. However, I wanted to labor and birth in an environment that felt safe, inviting, and comforting, as this would be the first glimpse that my little girl would have of life outside of the womb.
Here are 5 ways that you can create a welcoming, peaceful, environment in the midst of the sterile atmosphere of the hospital:
1. Create a Birth Playlist:
Include songs that you love, that bring you peace or relax you, or songs that remind you of the sweet babe you are about to meet! Plug in your Ipod dock, and let the sweet sounds set the mood for your labor and your little one’s first moments of life.
2. Make a Birthday Banner to Hang on the Wall:
I had one made for my best friend and hung it up as her focal point during pushing. It was a great reminder about the precious gift awaiting, after all of her hard work!
3. Wear Your Own Hospital Gown:
One of the most thoughtful gifts that I was given during my pregnancy was an adorable hospital gown. It made me so happy not to have to wear the faded, blue, hospital gown that was the standard at our local hospital.
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4. Bring Your Own Receiving Blanket and Hat for Baby:
All across America, the first pictures of new life are taken while baby is swaddled in a blue and white striped receiving blanket and matching newborn hat. Lately, hospitals have gotten slightly more updated, and are now donning babies in orange elephants, which is cute- but not unique. Most hospitals will be happy to oblige in putting your new bundle of joy in their own blanket and tiny hat from home!
5. Create Comfortable Lighting:
Why not labor in lighting that makes you the most comfortable? While many hospitals will not allow candles, you can bring battery operated candles. Using a string of white, twinkling, lights, or even lanterns, can bring a sense of peace and tranquility to the sterile environment. However, do expect to have the glaring overhead lights on during the actual delivery.
Most importantly, do what makes you feel the most comfortable. Write your preferences into your birth plan and have your doctor sign off. Once the precious life that grew inside of your body is brought into the world, everything around you will fade away and you will be captivated by the best sights and sounds possible – your beautiful baby!
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By Allie Garcia
