The stork is heading for your home! More than 3.6 million births happened in the United States in 2020.

Preparing for childbirth is easy because so many people are giving birth. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t a little scary. You need to think of a few things so you can prepare for your upcoming birth properly.

What should you know about the childbirth process? Who should you turn to for support? What are the best ways you can deal with pain?

Answer these questions and you can bring your baby into the world the right way. Here is your quick guide.

Start Creating a Birth Plan

A birth plan is a written document that details how you want to give birth to your baby. You can describe where you want to give birth, if you want epidurals, and what should happen if you need a C-section.

You can give birth to a baby after tubal ligation. But you should read about tubal ligation and understand what may happen during childbirth. You may need to get tubal reversal surgery to have a successful birth.

Take a Few Classes for Childbirth

Classes for childbirth can teach you how to manage labor pains and take care of your baby after they are born. You can go alone, or you can go with your partner or a friend.

If in-person classes are inconvenient for you, you can take classes over Zoom. You can also get books and fliers from schools so you can know about managing labor pain.

Get Support From Your Family

A childbirth support network is extremely important. You should tell your partner, family, and friends what you need before and after giving birth. Someone should watch your child while you rest and perform errands for you.

If you don’t have someone you can trust, you can get a doula. A doula is a companion who will accompany you during birth and help you mitigate your pain.

Reduce Pain

You can manage your pain from labor in a few different ways. You can try deep breathing, which will relax your muscles and prevent them from tearing. You can also listen to music or podcasts that will distract you.

You can change your position while you are giving birth. Try sitting upright or standing up so you can use gravity to push the baby out. Your partner or doula can hold you so you have support.

Try Preparing for Childbirth

Preparing for childbirth requires several different steps. You should write your own birth plan that helps doctors prepare for the birth.

Take a couple of classes so you know how to fight off pain and provide for your baby. Hire a doula if you don’t have family members or friends you can turn to.

While you are giving birth, you should distract yourself and avoid tearing your muscles. Changing your position will help you do both, especially if you sit upright.

Once you’re done with childbirth, you can start parenting. Read parenting guides by following our coverage.