Is Natural Birth Possible in a Hospital?

Choosing to have a natural, unmedicated birth in a hospital setting can feel like trying to swim upstream. Hospital environments are often geared toward medical interventions, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can absolutely have the birth experience you desire. Here’s what to expect and how to set yourself up for success.

What to Expect When Planning a Natural Birth in a Hospital

Hospitals have routines and protocols that often assume the use of interventions like IV fluids, continuous fetal monitoring, and epidurals. If you’re aiming for an unmedicated birth, it’s essential to know what policies your hospital has in place and to understand that hospital policy is not law—you always have the right to informed consent and can decline anything you choose.

Common hospital policies to be aware of:

• Admission procedures – Many hospitals require certain baseline procedures upon admission, like cervical checks or IV placement, but you have the right to decline.

• Fetal monitoring – Some hospitals require continuous monitoring as part of their standard routine, which can limit movement. You can request wireless monitoring or intermittent monitoring instead.

• Time limits on labor – Some hospitals have policies on how long labor “should” take before augmentation is suggested, but you might want to advocate for more time if you and baby are doing well.

• Pushing positions – Many hospitals default to delivering in a reclined position, but you can advocate for upright, side-lying, squatting, or standing positions, which may be more effective and comfortable.

• Immediate postpartum care – Some hospitals routinely administer pitocin in the 3rd stage of labor. It is typical for newborn care to routinely include rubbing/stimulating the baby and clamping the cord within the first minute. Ask your provider about their typical approach to this time so you can communicate your preferences.

How to Prepare for a Natural Birth in a Hospital

1. Choose a Supportive Provider
Not all obstetricians or midwives are equally supportive of unmedicated birth. Look for a provider who has a track record of supporting natural birth and who is open to discussing your preferences in detail.

2. Take a Birth Class Focused on Natural Birth
A hospital childbirth class may not cover unmedicated birth strategies. Opt for a class that specifically teaches natural pain management techniques, like breathing, movement, and partner support.

3. Hire a Doula
Studies show that having a doula decreases the likelihood of interventions and increases satisfaction with the birth experience. A doula can suggest comfort measures, help communicate your preferences to your provider, and talk through decisions with you.

4. Make a Birth Plan (and Discuss It in Advance)
A clear, concise birth plan helps your provider and nurses understand your wishes. Be sure to include:

• Preferences for movement and monitoring

• Pain management techniques you plan to use

• Pushing positions you prefer

• Newborn procedures you’d like delayed or declined

5. Practice Labor Coping Techniques
No matter what kind of birth you’re planning, practical pain management skills are critical! Practice techniques like deep breathing, counterpressure, hydrotherapy, and relaxation exercises before labor begins. This is literally half of the focus of my online course Brave Birth Bootcamp because it’s so important to be equipped.

6. Create a Calm Hospital Environment
Small changes can make the hospital room feel more like home. Consider bringing:

• Dim lighting or flameless candles

• A playlist of calming music or birth affirmations

• Essential oils for aromatherapy

• A comfortable pillow or blanket from home

7. Keep Your Faith and Your Birth Prep Integrated
God’s design for the physiology of labor and birth is so intricate and awe-inspiring. Throughout the process of preparing to give birth, prioritize prayerful consideration of the things you learn. Surrender your fears to Him and ask Him to give you wisdom, peace, and faith throughout the journey. Just as He is knitting your baby in your womb, He is sovereign over your birth experience.

Advocating for Yourself in the Hospital

Even with preparation, you may encounter pushback on your birth preferences. Stay confident in your choices and remember:

• Hospital policies are not laws. You always have the right to informed consent and can decline procedures as you choose.

• Using phrases like, “Can we have a moment to discuss this privately?” can give you time to make informed decisions.

• Your birth partner or doula can help communicate your wishes so you can stay focused on labor.

Wanna dive deeper?

If you're planning a natural birth and want to feel truly prepared, Brave Birth Bootcamp is for you! You'll learn essential mindset shifts and practical strategies to help you labor confidently—even in a hospital setting. Join today and take the first step toward the birth you desire!

Learn More About Brave Birth Bootcamp