10 Ideas to Create a Calm and Relaxing Birth Environment

Home birth is an empowering experience that is starting to appeal to more and more women. For those with low-risk pregnancies, home birth is a beautiful choice for those who desire a more intimate and familiar setting.

What are some ways you can create a calm and relaxing birth environment right inside the comfort of your home?

1. Choose the Right Space

What place in your house makes you feel most at peace? You should choose a birthing room that is spacious, well-ventilated, and private. Many people opt for their bedroom for the convenience of their bed, but if you plan a water birth or other way of giving birth, you might prefer a different room. A space with soothing colors and natural lighting can contribute to a calming atmosphere - make sure the room can be dimmed to create a cozy and serene setting.

2. Declutter and Simplify

Get that nesting mode working for you the last few weeks of pregnancy! A clutter-free environment can reduce stress and create a sense of calm. Declutter the chosen birthing room by removing unnecessary furniture and personal items. This will not only make the space more comfortable but also make it easier for your birthing team to move around.

3. Set the Mood with Lighting

Calming mood lighting - what does that look like for you? Candles, soft string lights, a disco ball… okay maybe not that last one (unless you love it, you do you!), but the right lighting can make or break your calm environment. Natural light is ideal during the daytime, but you should also be able to dim the lights when needed. 

4. Include the People YOU Want

Make sure you decide ahead of time who you want included in your birth, and whether they will be there the whole time, just during labor, or just during the actual birth. Whether you want just your partner and midwife in the room or whether you want your whole family there plus the next door neighbor - make your desires known ahead of time so that there are no hurt feelings in the moment.

5. Use Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a powerful tool for relaxation. Try using essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or peppermint to create a calming atmosphere. Diffusers or scented candles can disperse these soothing scents throughout the room and help you relax. Be sure to choose scents that you find personally calming and pleasant.

6. Play Calming Music

Music can have a profound impact on your mood and relaxation. Create a playlist ahead of time of your favorite calming and soothing tunes. Consider sounds of nature, classical music, or meditation tracks. Music can provide a comforting backdrop to your birthing experience and even distract you during contractions.

7. Consider the Senses

Don’t forget about your other senses!Think about textures, tastes, and sounds that make you feel the most relaxed. Provide soft blankets or fabric for touch, have light and nourishing snacks available that you love, and use calming sounds or white noise machines to block out any distractions from the outside world.

8. Use Birthing Affirmation Cards

Affirmation cards contain phrases that help you keep a positive mindset all through labor and remind you that you do have the strength to birth your baby. Look up phrases online or write your own to keep where you can see them or available for someone read to you periodically.

9. Personalize Your Space

Add personal touches to your birthing environment. These could be items that hold sentimental value, such as family photos, artwork, or mementos. Having familiar and cherished items around can make you feel comfortable and secure.

10. Prepare a Birth Plan

First, a disclaimer you are probably well-aware of - births almost never go exactly to plan! However, if writing out a birth plan helps you feel calm going into labor, by all means, have one ready. Plus, they can be helpful in letting others know your desires and vision.