Taking Charge of Your Birth - with Henci Goer
In my recent conversation with Henci Goer, we delve into the world of childbirth, doulas, and pain management. Henci, a former doula, childbirth educator and researcher, discusses the insights from her new book, Take Charge of Your Birth - Labor Pain. Our discussion covers the pros and cons of epidurals, the significance of having a birth plan, and the vital role of doulas in childbirth. Here’s a closer look at the key takeaways from our discussion.
Key Takeaways
Henci’s New Book: Her latest work offers comprehensive information on pain management during childbirth, encouraging mothers to make decisions that best suit them. It emphasizes that having a birth plan is crucial, but it's equally important to have a plan B.
Epidurals: Pros and Cons: Throughout our conversation, we explore common misconceptions about epidurals, including side effects and controversies. Henci emphasizes the need to view epidurals as one tool in the birth toolkit, avoiding their demonization while advocating for informed choices.
Doulas’ Role: Doulas provide emotional support and advocate for their clients, guiding them through the medical system's challenges. However, they often face resistance in hospital settings. Effective communication and emotional regulation are essential for doulas to facilitate informed decision-making.
Emotional Regulation: Henci highlights the importance of emotional regulation for doulas. Being present and calm helps support moms during labor, even when facing difficult situations.
Advocating for Your Birth Preferences: It’s crucial for expectant parents to communicate effectively with healthcare providers. Educating yourself and making informed decisions leads to a safer, more empowering, and satisfying birth experience.
Taking Charge as a First-Time Mom: Henci underscores that while taking charge can be challenging for first-time moms, it's vital to avoid abdicating decision-making. Reflecting on the birth experience with self-compassion is essential for positive growth and future choices.
Navigating Childbirth: Education and Empowerment
Our conversation reinforces the need for expectant parents to be proactive in their birth journey. By exploring options, communicating preferences, and having the support of a doula, moms can approach childbirth with confidence. As Henci notes, being informed is key to a more empowering and satisfying experience.
Click below for the full episode. If you want to dive deeper into these topics, Henci’s new book, Take Charge of Your Birth - Labor Pain, is a fantastic resource. Check out her website for more information: hencigoer.com .
