Clearing the Path: Benefits of Proactive Prep for Birth and Beyond

In a literal sense, “clearing the path” refers to the physical action of removing objects like branches, rocks, or debris that might block or impede movement along a trail. The purpose of doing so is to make the path easier to travel or navigate.

Metaphorically, and in the context of birth and beyond, “clearing the path” means taking proactive steps during pregnancy (or even before) to identify and manage potential obstacles and challenges along the route that you plan to take. This can make your birth and postpartum journey smoother and more straightforward.

Here’s what this can look like:

• Working through fears
• Choosing an aligned care provider
• Hiring a doula
• Focusing on health and wellness in pregnancy
• Starting a mindfulness and meditation practice
• Becoming familiar with the birth process
• Creating a birth plan and discussing your options in advance
• Preparing for postpartum, not just birth
• Building a support system

While it can be beneficial to clear the path, this doesn’t mean that it’s possible to remove every obstacle. Here are some examples:

• Chronic illness
• Insurance that limits your options
• Options limited by where you live
• Complications that arise
• Lack of access to paid leave
• Financial limitations
• Difficulties in finding support

There may be challenges that we just have to navigate. Knowing what they are in advance can be immensely helpful when it comes to problem-solving solutions to managing them. Maybe they are completely unavoidable. Maybe there is a different path to take.

It’s also critical to understand that unexpected challenges will arise during the journey. Support and tools can help us navigate them in the moment. This can look like:

• Doula support
• Non-medical pain management techniques
• Knowing which labor positions to use and when
• Medical interventions
• Postpartum doula support
• Support from an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant)

“Clearing the path” is all about knowing where you want to go, removing any obstacles that you can in advance, coming up with a plan to navigate the ones you cannot move, and being ready to navigate the unexpected challenges in the moment.