10 Things Your Doctor Probably Didn't Tell You About Giving Birth

Hey there, mama-to-be!

Feeling overwhelmed with all the birth advice (or, let’s be real, the lack of it)? Same girl. Same.

That’s why I’m pulling back the curtain to share ten things your doctor probably didn’t mention about giving birth—but that might make a world of difference for you.

And hey, as your friendly neighborhood Surprise AZ newborn photographer, I get to witness a lot of beautiful beginnings… and I’ve picked up a few insider tips along the way!

(If any of these make your ears perk up, jot them down and bring them to your next prenatal appointment! Make sure you discuss all of the options with your doctor.)

1. You don't have to give birth in a hospital.

Yep, that’s right! Birth doesn’t have to happen under fluorescent lights. Home births and birth centers offer a more relaxed, intimate environment—plus, studies show they’re safe for low-risk pregnancies. If you have a higher risk pregnancy, or just want a NICU close, being at a hospital may be what you need though!

Check out the American Association of Birth Centers to learn more.

Question for your doctor: Would you support me if I decided to birth at home or at a birth center with a licensed midwife?

2. Epidurals aren’t your only option.

Epidurals get all the attention, but there’s a whole world of pain management out there—like nitrous oxide (aka laughing gas), sterile water injections, or good ol’ massage and movement. Natural methods like hypnobirthing are gaining major traction too.

Having given birth to 5 babies with the help of an epidural, I'm am definitely on team epidural, but there are lots of other options. So do your research and talk to your doctor.

Question for your doctor: What non-epidural pain relief options do you see working well for your patients?

3. Bring the vibes—you can play your own music.

You can absolutely set the mood in your delivery space. Whether it’s calming piano or Beyoncé on repeat, sound can help ground you through contractions. Some people even bring sound machines or birth affirmations.

Question for your doctor: Can I bring my own playlist or use a Bluetooth speaker during labor?

4. Water is magic: consider a birthing pool.

Warm water can ease pain, help with relaxation, and make it easier to move your body (which helps baby move, too). If your hospital doesn’t have birth tubs, ask if you can labor in the shower or bring your own inflatable pool if birthing at home.

Check out this guide to water birth from Evidence Based Birth.

Question for your doctor: What water options are available at the hospital or birth center?

5. Yes…you might poop. And no, nobody cares.

Let’s normalize it: poop happens. It’s a sign that you’re using your muscles right and that baby is coming. Nurses see this every day and will discreetly clean things up—you likely won’t even notice.

6. You don’t have to push lying down.

There are so many labor positions beyond the hospital bed. Squatting, hands and knees, side-lying, even using a birthing stool can make a big difference. I had some fantastic nurses with all my babies that helped me find the most comfortable positions, but it's nice to know there are options!

Question for your doctor: What birth positions are you comfortable supporting? Have you attended births outside the bed?

7. Doulas are worth their weight in gold.

Whether you want a natural birth or just extra support, doulas are amazing. They help you advocate for your choices, offer comfort measures, and stick with you throughout labor—something nurses and doctors can’t always do.

Learn more about doula care at DONA International.

Question for your doctor: Have you worked with any doulas? Do you have recommendations?

8. Eating and drinking in labor isn’t off-limits everywhere.

Some hospitals still follow outdated policies about fasting, but the evidence says a light snack or drink can be perfectly safe (and helpful!). You wouldn’t run a marathon on an empty stomach, right?

Question: What’s your policy on food and drink during labor?

9. Your mindset is a powerful tool.

Breathwork, meditation, visualization—all of it matters. Even five minutes a day of practicing calm breathing can prepare you mentally for the intensity of labor. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be something.

Apps like Expectful or Insight Timer are great for this.

Question for your doctor: Are there childbirth education classes you recommend that focus on mindfulness or coping strategies?

10. C-sections aren’t failure—they’re just another way to meet your baby.

C-sections can be necessary and life-saving. You can still have a calm, connected experience even in the OR. Think: music playing, clear drapes, immediate skin-to-skin, and your birth partner by your side.

Question for your doctor: Under what circumstances do you recommend a c-section, and how can I make it feel more personal if it happens?

Final Thoughts from Your Favorite Arizona Newborn Photographer

There’s so much about birth that’s left out of the usual conversations. I hope this post gave you a few “aha!” moments—and reminded you that your voice matters in this experience.

And when baby arrives? That’s where I come in. I specialize in comfortable, in-home newborn photography for families right here in Surprise, Arizona. If you’re dreaming of studio quality photos , without packing up your brand new baby, I’d love to be part of your journey.

Want to chat more about newborn sessions or grab a spot on my calendar? Click here to reach out or learn more about my in-home newborn sessions here.

You’ve got this, mama!