Low Intervention Birth - What does this mean and how can your ObGyn support you?
Recently, more expectant mothers have been seeking midwifery care to make their birth experience more natural and personal. The concept of a low intervention birth, minimizes medical interference unless absolutely necessary. At Premier ObGyn, we want you to know that we are here to support the birth that you desire - in a hospital setting.
What is a low intervention birth?
This refers to a process of birth that avoids medical procedures, medications or interventions from your delivery team. This does not necessarily mean no interventions at all - but instead allows labor to progress as naturally as possible, while advocating for the safety of mom and baby. Common practices of a low intervention birth include:
Spontaneous labor (no induction)
Movement
Wireless or intermittent fetal monitoring
Declining pain medications (epidural, IV narcotics)
Pushing by instinct
Skin to skin immediately after delivery
Delayed cord clamping
All of the above can take place successfully in a hospital setting with a physician, with the availability to intervene if medically indicated.
Why choose a low intervention birth?
Trust in the natural ability to birth a child without excessive intervention, unless complications arise.
Increased control over your labor experience
Fewer risks of cascade of interventions (while rare, sometimes inductions place stress on both the mother and baby), requiring more interventions down the line
Quicker recovery (while not always the case, many moms who opt for low intervention or unmedicated deliveries have an easier physical recovery)
Is it safe?
When appropriately supported and monitored in a hospital setting, a low intervention birth is an extremely safe option. Remember, a low intervention birth does not mean a ‘NO’ intervention birth. Your team of nurses and physicians are trained to recognize when intervention may be necessary and to act quickly if needed. The key in a low intervention birth is informed choice, while also placing trust in your care team if your birth takes an unexpected turn. Unfortunately, babies do what they want and we cannot always predict outcomes. If you are planning a low intervention birth, come with some ‘Birth Guidelines’ but be flexible if your baby has other ideas! Childbirth education classes, doula support, comfort techniques and the right provider can help you achieve the birth you desire. Remember, no matter what kind of birth you have, our goal is always a healthy mom and healthy baby at the end of the day.
