Guests at your Birth: who should I invite?

Birth is VERY personal. That being said, it is very much a normal process of life. As animals, we have an innate understanding about birth that is very instinctual. After birth, a mother will naturally begin breastfeeding, cleaning off her baby, hugging them and keeping them warm. Children will often quietly sit in the corner during a birth and wean themselves naturally after witnessing the birth of their sibling. Just like these instincts: children, family and friends will pick up on their own natural instincts during a birth.

When you invite people to your birth remember that this is a normal process that is typically done alone and in the comfort of a dark and quiet room for most mammals and homebirth moms. It can be a beautiful experience to share with close families and friends. It can bring so many good memories and the sight of a newborn baby will for sure change one’s outlook on life and the natural processes of life. A good guideline I feel in considering which people would be most helpful at your birth would be to ask yourself: who am I comfortable being with me during a moment as intimate as sex? Birth is as intimate as sex and the more undisturbed and happy you are during your birth, the more easeful your birth will be. Sex, masturbating, nipple stimulation, snuggling and skin contact are all incredibly helpful in boosting a mom’s oxytocin during labor. Surround yourself with people who will love, care for you and support you. If you are worried that birth may frighten your children or family, know that I am often pleasantly surprised by how well children and adults act during birth. It can be a learning experience for all! So much of birth is hidden away and mysterious in our society. A mother brings home a baby from the hospital out of the blue. When a toddler witnesses the birth of their sibling, they learn an understanding of birth that will be ingrained in them well into adulthood.