You’ve prepped for baby, but have you prepped for labor? Labor is like running a marathon. Would you run a marathon without training for it?! On the slim chance you said yes…how would you feel during the marathon or after without the training? Honestly, probably bad. The good news is, no matter what stage of pregnancy you are in, you can start prepping today with these three things.

3. Exercise

Join a Fit4Baby class! First and foremost, talk to your provider before starting any prenatal exercise program... AND then join Fit4Baby! You’ll be around other pregnant women in all different stages of pregnancy. The class is uniquely designed to help you find endurance and strength in your pregnancy all while strengthening those muscles that need extra attention as your belly grows. On top of that, you’re prepping for labor. Contractions and pushing are no joke, ask around. Fit4Baby will leave you with the strength to get through it and the mindset. We end every class with birth prep and a meditation, how appropriate, right?

2. Birth Preferences

I hear so many people talking about birth plans. I love a good plan and think they’re important, but you know what always happens when you have a plan or expectation? Something changes and doesn’t go as planned. Before becoming a mom, I was an event coordinator so I know firsthand how plans can change! So, I’m here to tell you, start saying birth preferences. Have your list of preferences and maybe even have a few other options then label them as preference A, B or C. Talk with your practitioner and your labor support so they know what exactly your preferences are.

And most importantly:

1. Hire a doula

You’ve done the exercising; you’ve made a list of preferences. What happens when you’re in labor and not thinking so clearly? What you’ve worked for the last 9 months is out the window. Not completely.

Hire a doula.

A what?! You heard me. A doula.

A doula is defined as “a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to their client before, during and shortly after childbirth to help them achieve the healthiest, most satisfying experience possible.” Typically, a doula will meet with you and your other labor support at least once or twice before labor to get to know you both and learn your preferences.

Okay, okay that sounds great but I’ll have my spouse (or other labor support) with me to provide support. You’re right, you will. But who will provide support to them?

Some reasons I believe everyone needs a doula:

• Your spouse/partner needs the support, too. A doula can help them, help you. They need a bathroom break, you’re covered. They don’t know what to say or how to specifically support you during this next contraction, got it.

• Those birth preferences? She’s got ‘em and they’re at the top of her mind while supporting you both. No need to worry. Typically, a doula will meet with you and your other labor support at least once or twice before labor to get to know you both and learn your preferences.

• Doc says something. You have no clue what is or the benefits/risks, she’s on it. You will feel empowered to make your own decisions based on research, not Google or pressure.

• She’s going to pack a bag full of knowledge and tools to help support you in one of the greatest things you’ll ever do.

Interview some doulas, it’s free! Learn how they can support you. If you still feel like it’s not right for you, then no problem just continue without them. You might just find the support you never knew you were missing.