By Dr. Michaela Lupo, Physical Therapist at Empower Your Pelvis in South Kansas City

What Is Childbirth Preparation?

Childbirth preparation involves the work done before your baby is born to ensure a smoother labor and delivery experience. As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I consider childbirth prep an essential part of the process. However, many expectant parents might not realize the importance of this preparation.

Why Is Childbirth Preparation Important?

Here are the top 5 reasons why childbirth preparation is crucial, according to a pelvic floor PT.

1) Labor and Childbirth Is a Marathon

Labor and childbirth are both mentally and physically demanding, much like running a marathon. Just as you wouldn’t attempt a marathon without proper training, it’s essential to prepare your mind and body for childbirth. This can include mindfulness exercises, specific stretches, and strengthening routines that prepare your body for the event. A childbirth prep course can provide comprehensive guidance and a supportive community to keep you on track.

2) Expectations vs. Reality

You may have a birth plan outlining your preferences for medication, who cuts the cord, immediate skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding, and more. While it’s helpful to have a plan, it’s equally important to prepare for the unexpected. Childbirth prep helps you and your partner understand the labor and delivery process, making you more equipped to handle any changes that might arise to ensure the safety of both mom and baby.

3) Reduce Your Chances of Tearing

Prepping your body through perineal massage and targeted exercises can reduce your risk of tearing during delivery. Just as physical therapy before surgery improves outcomes, childbirth preparation strengthens your pelvic floor muscles, improves blood flow, and enhances the brain-muscle connection. This preparation can make a significant difference in the postpartum healing process, whether you have a vaginal delivery or a cesarean.

4) Childbirth Prep Benefits Your Partner Too

Childbirth prep isn’t just for moms—it’s beneficial for partners as well. Many partners want to be supportive but may not know how. By participating in childbirth prep, partners become more knowledgeable about what happens during labor and delivery and learn practical ways to assist during the process.

5) You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know

A good childbirth prep course introduces you to the ins and outs of labor and delivery, including what to expect in hospitals or birthing centers. Many new moms aren’t aware of the choices they have during the birthing process. A childbirth prep course empowers you to ask the right questions and make informed decisions that align with your preferences.

Childbirth Prep Resource

If you’re looking for childbirth preparation support, my colleague Dr. Erica has an online birth prep course. This course includes recorded Zoom calls, four weeks of exercises to prepare for labor, and expert interviews on topics like breastfeeding, mental health, C-sections, and vaginal delivery. For more information, visit Empower Your Pelvis.

By preparing for childbirth, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother and more empowered birthing experience. Don’t hesitate to take the necessary steps to ensure you’re ready for the marathon of labor and delivery!

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With wellness in your pelvis-

Amanda Fisher
Owner, Empower Your Pelvis