It's A Marathon...Not a Sprint!

Giving birth is a lot like a marathon, or so I've been told. I will admit that I have never trained for a marathon.  But I know people who have, and here are a few things they have told me about the process that I think apply beautifully to the marathon of labor!

Mental preparedness is key. There are going to be times throughout the process of labor that you'll want to quit, give up, and forget this crazy idea of having a baby (right in the middle of it all!).  I've heard moms very close to meeting their babies exclaim, "That's it!  Never mind, I'm going home.  I'm done doing this!" If you are reading this and you've had a baby, you most likely can relate to this sentiment! I remind moms that when they feel they are "done" and that they can't do this one more minute, second or hour, they are likely very close to the end of the marathon.  The physical stamina is important, yes.  But the mental stamina is an equally important key to finishing the race!  I recommend taking a childbirth education series that will allow you to learn as much as you can about the process so that you know what to expect and how you can prepare. I also encourage positively envisioning, meditating, praying and/or thinking about the birth you want when you look forward to your birth experience.  Some moms may find that it's helpful to practice breathing and relaxation exercises, watch *positive* and affirming births (like this one!), and talk through any fears or concerns prior to or during labor. Going into labor with fear or dread can really hinder the process of labor and the production of oxytocin (the hormone so important to keeping labor progressing).  Listening to others share their own journeys through the births of their babies during pregnancy can be helpful, but I want to emphasize the importance of keeping those interactions positive.  

You have to train.  Physical endurance is really important.  This is why I recommend maintaining some sort of exercise routine (assuming your provider has given you the all-clear).  You do not have to stop fitness activities just because you are pregnant. Even in late pregnancy, you can continue to keep your normal exercise routine as long as it's comfortable for you and there's no medical reason to discontinue.  

Finally, hire a coach! Doulas are gaining popularity as many women have discovered what it feels like to have consistent, continuous support throughout their pregnancies, labors, and postpartum period.  You don't have to do this alone.  One dad recently told me, "I don't know what we would have done without you.  We wouldn't have had the knowledge or expertise to do the things you suggested, and it really made such a difference. Thank you!"

Remember, birth is a marathon and not a sprint.   You CAN finish the race! (And the reward at the end is better than any medal you could ever receive.)