Getting Ready for a Homebirth: My Journey to a Natural, Non-Medicated Birth (With Checklist!)

When I was pregnant with my first born, Atlas, in 2016, I wanted to experience a homebirth so badly! Unfortunately, at the time, I didn't have the means to make that happen - So now, fast-forward 8 years and our next little one on the way, I am thankful that I am able to finally have the home birthing experience I've always wanted! Preparing for a natural, non-medicated home birth is an exciting and empowering journey. The process is all about embracing the natural rhythm of birth and creating a peaceful, supportive environment for welcoming a new life into the world. From setting up a cozy, organized space to immersing myself in positive birthing practices, getting ready for a homebirth has been a transformative experience. Here, I’ll share my preparations, tips, and a handy checklist to inspire and guide other expectant mothers on this beautiful journey.

Nesting: Creating a Safe and Cozy Haven

Nesting is one of the most fulfilling parts of getting ready for a homebirth. It’s all about creating a clean, organized, and comfortable space for the baby and me. This includes sanitizing bottles, washing all clothes and blankets, and organizing toys. Ensuring that everything is spotless and ready for the baby's arrival helps me feel more prepared and less anxious.

I’ve dedicated time each day to different nesting tasks. First, I sterilize all feeding bottles and pump parts. Then, I wash and fold the baby’s clothes, blankets, and cloth diapers, using a gentle, natural detergent to protect the baby’s sensitive skin. Organizing toys and baby gear ensures that everything is in its place, making the postpartum period smoother. This meticulous preparation is a crucial part of getting ready for a homebirth, as it helps create a serene and welcoming environment.

Hypnobirthing: Embracing a Calm and Positive Birth Experience

Hypnobirthing is an incredible method for achieving a calm and positive birth experience. It involves using self-hypnosis, relaxation techniques, and visualization to reduce stress and fear during labor. I’ve been practicing hypnobirthing daily, focusing on deep breathing exercises and positive affirmations.

This approach has been a game-changer in getting ready for a homebirth. It empowers me to trust my body’s natural ability to birth and helps me stay centered and relaxed. Watching positive homebirth videos has been an integral part of my preparation, providing inspiration and boosting my confidence. These videos showcase the beauty and strength of natural birth, reinforcing my belief in my ability to have a peaceful homebirth.

Music for the Mind and Baby: Positive Vibes and Brain Development

Listening to baby brain development music and positive Hz tuned music has been a soothing and beneficial part of my routine. These types of music are designed to stimulate the baby’s brain development and promote relaxation for both of us. Tracks tuned to frequencies like 432 Hz and 528 Hz are known for their calming and healing properties, which are perfect for creating a tranquil environment.

Incorporating music into my daily life has made getting ready for a homebirth even more enjoyable. I play these tracks while I relax, practice hypnobirthing, or even while I’m nesting. The positive vibrations help me maintain a calm and positive mindset, which is crucial for a successful natural birth. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to bond with my baby, as they can hear and respond to the music in the womb.

Planning the Perfect Birthing Space: Creating an Oasis of Calm

One of the most exciting parts of getting ready for a homebirth has been planning out what I want my birthing space to look like. I envision a serene space with calm, dim lighting to create a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere. Harsh, bright lights have always been a no-no for me in any setting. I consider myself a cave-swelling vampire when it comes to the lighting in our home, so in my birthing space, it's no different! Knowing who I want in my space during labor and delivery is essential for maintaining a supportive and positive environment. I’ve carefully selected a few loved ones who will provide the encouragement and reassurance I need: my son, my husband, our beloved family chiropractor who specializes in pediatric and infant chiropractic care, and of course, our amazing certified Midwife. I've very particular and what energies are in my space while giving birth, as you should be, too! Find people who support your choices and will do nothing but be there to make you comfortable and help you in any way they can.

Playing my birthing playlist (listen here), is another key element. Honestly, I find being is the shower has been the best place for me to build my playlist. While I sit alone on the shower stool with the warm water running on me, I can focus, relax and spend time listening to music and adding songs that make me feel good or that I can move/dance to while in labor. It's been quite the fun process! Music has a profound effect on my mood, and having a playlist filled with soothing and empowering tracks will help keep me calm and focused. Additionally, I plan to use essential oils with my diffuser for aromatherapy. Scents like lavender and chamomile will promote relaxation and create a spa-like ambiance (yes, please!)

Having a supply bucket/basket nearby with towels and any other immediate supplies we may need for use or cleaning is also part of my plan. This preparation ensures that everything is within reach, reducing stress and allowing us to focus entirely on the birthing process. Planning and organizing my birthing space is a joyful part of getting ready for a homebirth, making me feel even more excited and prepared for the big day.

Gathering Supplies: Essential Items for a Smooth Homebirth

Having all the necessary supplies ready is a significant part of getting ready for a homebirth. This includes a birthing tub, natural cleaning supplies, and homeopathic remedies for pain management. A birthing tub provides a comfortable and soothing environment for labor and delivery, helping to ease pain and promote relaxation. Fortunately, our Midwife has a birthing pool we get to use - All we had to do was buy the liner! I also purchased some plastic shower liners and cheap sheets I don't mind getting ruined, to protect and put on our bed, in case I want to move to our bedroom for any reason. It's always good to have a plan B incase the pool just isn't working for you.

I’ve also stocked up on natural cleaning supplies to ensure that my birthing space is clean and safe. We are setting up the birthing pool in our living room, so I have dusted, vacuumed and disinfected everything (a few times already) just to make sure everything feels and looks clean. Being in a messy, unclean space will certainly not help me relax so doing this is huge for me! If you can, consider hiring a professional cleaning company to come in close to your due date to take the chore of cleaning off your list - It's a nice way to treat yourself! Homeopathic remedies like Arnicare and the "AfterEase" tincture are on hand to manage pain and afterbirth contractions. Additionally, I’ve prepared a mama post-partum care caddy, stocked with essentials like perineal spray/balm, pads, SITZ bath supplies, etc. This caddy is set up in the bathroom for easy access during the postpartum period, ensuring I can care for myself while caring for the baby.

If you're wanting learn more about holistic prenatal practices I use to get ready for birth, check out this article.

Nourishing the Body: The Power of Diet in the Third Trimester

Diet plays a crucial role in getting ready for a homebirth. Eating dates in the third trimester has been shown to improve labor outcomes by increasing cervical ripening and reducing the need for medical interventions. Dates are rich in natural sugars, fiber, and nutrients that provide sustained energy and support digestive health.

Drinking red raspberry leaf tea is another essential part of my diet. This herbal tea is known for its benefits in the third trimester, including strengthening the uterine muscles, which can lead to more efficient contractions during labor. It also helps tone the pelvic floor, making the birthing process smoother. Incorporating these dietary practices has made me feel more prepared and confident as I approach my homebirth.

Holistic Homebirth Supply Checklist

For Mom:

- Birthing Tub: If planning a water birth.

- Comfortable Clothing: Loose, breathable garments for labor.

- Birthing Ball: For comfort and positioning.

- Essential Oils & Diffuser: Lavender, chamomile, or other calming oils.

- Homeopathic Remedies: Arnica for pain relief, "AfterEase Tincture" for afterbirth contractions.

- Perineal Spray/Balm: For postpartum care.

- Pads: Heavy-duty for postpartum bleeding.

- Nursing Bras & Pads: For breastfeeding comfort.

- Perineal Cold Packs: For postpartum swelling and pain relief.

- Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: To drink in the third trimester and during labor.

- Dates: To eat in the third trimester for cervical ripening.

For Baby

- Clothing: Onesies, sleepers, and hats.

- Blankets: Soft, warm blankets for swaddling.

- Diapers: Newborn size, cloth or disposable.

- Wipes: Natural, gentle wipes.

- Bottles & Nipples: Sterilized and ready for use.

- Baby Carrier: For skin-to-skin contact and mobility.

- Diaper Cream: Gentle, natural cream for diaper changes.

General Supplies for Home

- Sanitizing Supplies: Natural cleaning products for maintaining a clean environment.

- Towels: Plenty of clean, soft towels.

- Washcloths: For both mom and baby.

- Trash Bags: For quick and easy clean-up.

- Snacks & Drinks: Healthy options for energy during labor.

- Heating Pad: For comfort and pain relief.

- Cold Packs: For soothing any swelling or discomfort.

- Big Bowl: To hold placenta, once its delivered.

For Your Bed

- Waterproof Mattress Cover: To protect the mattress.

- Extra Sheets: For easy changes during and after labor.

- Pillows: Plenty of supportive pillows for positioning and comfort.

- Disposable Underpads/Liners: To protect sheets and mattress.

- Soft Blanket: For comfort and warmth during labor and after delivery.

Miscellaneous Items

- Birthing Playlist: Curated music to keep you calm and focused.

- Camera or Phone: To capture moments if desired.

- Birth Plan: Printed copies to communicate your preferences.

- Cord Blood Collection Kit: If planning to collect and store cord blood.

- Extra Lighting: Soft, dimmable lights or lamps.

- Fan: For comfort if the room gets warm.

- Massage Tools: For pain relief and relaxation.

Hospital Bag (Just in Case)

- Identification & Insurance Cards: Essential documents.

- Birth Plan: A copy for the hospital staff.

- Comfortable Clothes: For labor, delivery, and going home.

- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, etc.

- Snacks: Non-perishable items for you and your partner.

- Phone Charger: To keep your phone charged.

- Nursing Pillow: For breastfeeding comfort.

- Baby’s Going Home Outfit: Including a hat and blanket.

- Car Seat: Properly installed and ready to go.

Embracing the Journey with Confidence and Joy

Getting ready for a homebirth is a journey of preparation, empowerment, and connection. By creating a nurturing environment, practicing hypnobirthing, listening to positive music, gathering essential supplies, and nourishing my body, I’m embracing this experience with confidence and joy. Every step taken in preparation brings me closer to the moment I’ll welcome my baby into the world, surrounded by love and tranquility.

For anyone considering a natural, non-medicated home birth, remember that preparation is key. Trust your body, embrace the journey, and take the time to create a positive and supportive environment. The journey of getting ready for a homebirth is not just about the birth itself but also about the beautiful process of connecting with your baby and your own strength. Embrace it with an open heart and mind, and look forward to the incredible experience that awaits.