It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit anxious as your due date approaches, especially if you worry about going into labor when you’re alone. While it’s rare, it’s always good to be prepared just in case. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, less than 1% of births happen at home, and only a small fraction of those are unplanned. Nevertheless, if you do find yourself needing to deliver at home, here’s a friendly guide to help you through the process.
1. Assess the Situation
First things first, take a moment to check your surroundings. Are you alone? Do you have a way to call for help? If you’re feeling contractions, try to time them. You can use your phone or a timer to keep track. If the contractions are close together, it’s time to call for help. You can reach out to emergency services or a trusted friend who can assist you.
2. Call for Help
If you can, dial 911 or your local emergency number as soon as possible. They can guide you through the process and send help your way. While waiting for assistance, remember that you are not alone, and this is a natural process.
3. Stay Calm and Breathe
Take deep breaths to keep yourself calm. It’s important to remember that many women give birth every day, and you can too! Focusing on your breathing can help manage pain and anxiety.
4. Resist the Urge to Push Until Necessary
If you feel the urge to push, try to hold off until help arrives. Pushing too soon can lead to complications. Focus on breathing and staying relaxed.
5. What to Do Once Baby Arrives
Once your little one is born, the next steps are crucial. Do not attempt to cut or tie the umbilical cord at this time. Instead, place your baby on your chest to keep them warm and connected. Skin-to-skin contact is beneficial for both you and your newborn.
6. Prepare an Emergency Birth Kit
It’s a great idea to have a birth kit ready just in case. Include items like clean towels, a pair of scissors, and a clean string or clamp for the umbilical cord when the time is right. You can find more information about what to include in a birth kit on our blog at Modern Family Blog.
If you’re thinking about starting your family journey, consider checking out Make a Mom, which provides resources for at-home insemination, including the only re-usable option. They have a great guide on how at-home insemination works that’s worth a look. For those seeking connections, you might also want to join the Make a Mom Facebook group for support and advice.
To learn more about pregnancy and childbirth, you can consult resources from the World Health Organization or read about the experiences of others, such as in this story of four failed IUI attempts leading to a successful home insemination.
Summary
While it’s uncommon to give birth alone at home, knowing what to do can help ease your fears. Assess your situation, call for help, and remember to stay calm. Prepare an emergency birth kit, and connect with resources to support your journey into parenthood.