When you read the title of this blog, a million things are probably going through your head. "What could I possibly choose to make my birth great, birth is so unpredictable!"

Well, here it is. 

The #1 choice you need to make in order to have an amazing birth experience is this: Who is your care provider and why are you choosing them?

By care provider, I'm talking the person that will deliver your baby. Obviously your doula choice is going to be there to help you along each new decision and path but the person who will be there to deliver, catch or birth your baby is the one who really matters!

So, why does this matter so much? 

Because your choices in birth are largely swayed by the people who surround you. If you desire a non medicated, vaginal birth and you hire the OB with the highest cesarean rate in the metro, there's a chance that your birth may not be what you expect or plan for. 

If you want to schedule your cesarean and have no desire to hold your baby until after they are cleaned up and swaddled, the OB deemed "the OB midwife" is probably not the one for you. 

What if you want to go for a VBAC? It's important that you not only plan for your VBAC but you also have a team of people surrounding you who are aware of VBAC's and have supported that type of birth before! 

Ask around, let people know about the type of birth you are wanting. Listen to stories about the type of provider you are looking for.

Lastly, don't be afraid to switch providers. 

Listen to your gut and never be afraid to say "no, this is not the type of birth I see for myself. I'll be finding someone else to support me during this time." You have the power here! You are in the unique placement to find exactly what you want, especially in the Kansas City Metro area. There are hundreds of providers, each with their own unique set of skills to emotionally, physically and mentally support you! 

Lastly, talk to your doula. My KC Doula is ready to help you have an amazing birth that you can remember and look upon fondly for years to come!