Things to do while waiting for labor

Waiting (and waiting…and waiting…) for labor to begin on its own is a bizarre experience. You’ve been prepping and planning and dreaming about meeting your baby for so long, and once you get close to the finish line, it seems like time stops. It’s no wonder that many are tempted to choose induction to get the show on the road! However, there are a lot of really good reasons to wait. Babies are generally really good at choosing their own birthdays! Waiting for them to be good and ready has a host of benefits, including:

1. Reduced Risk of Complications: Studies have shown that waiting for spontaneous labor reduces the risk of various complications, such as infection and uterine rupture.

2. Lower Cesarean Section Rates: Induced labor is associated with a higher likelihood of ending in a cesarean section compared to spontaneous labor.

3. Decreased Risk of NICU Admission: Babies born after spontaneous labor tend to have a lower risk of admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) compared to those born after induced labor.

4. Lower Risk of Fetal Distress: The risk of fetal distress during labor is generally lower in cases of spontaneous labor.

5. Improved Neonatal Outcomes: Babies born after spontaneous labor tend to have better overall neonatal outcomes compared to those born after induction.

6. Reduced Risk of Prematurity: Waiting for labor to begin naturally helps ensure that the baby is fully developed and ready for birth, reducing the risk of premature birth.

7. Increased Likelihood of Vaginal Birth: Women who wait for spontaneous labor are more likely to have a vaginal birth, as induction increases the chances of a cesarean section.

8. Better Maternal Satisfaction: Studies have indicated that women who experience spontaneous labor tend to have higher levels of satisfaction with their birth experiences compared to those who undergo induction.

9. Shorter Labor Duration: Spontaneous labor usually results in a shorter and more efficient labor process compared to induced labor.

10. Fewer Interventions: Induction often involves the use of medical interventions such as Pitocin (a synthetic form of oxytocin) and continuous fetal monitoring, which can lead to a cascade of further interventions. Spontaneous labor typically requires fewer interventions.

It’s important to note that there are MANY valid medical reasons for inducing labor, including medical conditions or concerns about the health of the mother or baby. However, in low-risk pregnancies, waiting for spontaneous labor increases your chances of a safe and positive birth experience. Always consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the best approach for your specific situation.

But that leaves us with THE WAITING. While you’re counting down the days until labor begins, keep your mind from spiraling by keeping yourself busy. Here are 15 things to do while waiting for your baby:

1. Fine Tune Your Birth Plan: Use this time to review or outline your preferences for labor and delivery, including pain management, birthing positions, and any special requests you may have. Make sure your healthcare provider and doula have copies!

2. Pack Your Hospital Bag: Ensure you have everything you need for the hospital or birthing center, including essentials for you, your baby, and your partner. And snacks. So many snacks.

3. Go on Dates: Spend quality time with your partner! Go out to dinner, watch movies in the theater, stay up late just because you can. Schedule things to look forward to around your due date (you can always cancel if your baby decides to arrive).

4. Take a Prenatal Class: Consider enrolling in prenatal classes to learn about childbirth, infant care, and breastfeeding. These can boost your confidence and provide valuable information. Check out online, self paced options, or set up a private class with me!

5. Nest: Channel your nesting instincts into preparing the nursery, organizing baby clothes, and getting your home ready for the new addition. It’s amazing how much you can get done in a few short weeks when your hormones are egging you on.

6. Enjoy Self-Care: Treat yourself to a prenatal massage, pedicure, or a relaxing bath to relieve any physical discomfort and pamper yourself. Ask me for local recs if you need them!

7. Read: Dive into pregnancy and parenting books to gain insights and prepare mentally for the upcoming challenges and joys of motherhood. Or: do the opposite, and read whatever kinds of books YOU like! You’re still you. Dive into whatever great book you’ve been too busy for.

8. Connect with Other Parents: Go to local classes and meet ups or join online groups (with caution, ha) to find solidarity.

9. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Go over relaxation and breathing exercises, which can reduce stress in the moment (plus they’re invaluable during labor!).

10. Cook and Freeze Meals: Prepare and freeze nutritious meals that can be easily reheated once your baby arrives, saving you time and energy. Stock your pantry with healthy snacks that you can eat with one hand while holding or feeding a baby.

11. Write Letters: Pen heartfelt letters to your baby or start a journal to document your thoughts, feelings, and experiences during pregnancy.

12. Exercise: Gentle walks in nature or around your neighborhood can keep you active, improve your mood, and encourage labor-ready positioning. Take a yoga class. Work on the exercises I’ve given you to get baby in a good position. If you have access to a pool: swim! (Or just float. No judgement.)

13. Set Up a Baby Book: Begin filling in your baby’s first-year baby book with details about your pregnancy, ultrasound photos, and your hopes for their future.

14. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness or meditation exercises to help you stay present and manage any anxiety or fear about labor.

15. Rest and Sleep: Embrace naps and early bedtime to ensure you’re well-rested for the challenges of labor and the demands of caring for a newborn.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and your body is wise. It will generally tell you what you need if you’re listening. The waiting period before labor is the perfect time to practice TRUST…in your body, your baby, and yourself. You know what to do, you were made for this, and I believe in you. Now go take a nap.