10 Things I Wish I Knew About Birth Before I Had a Baby | Oceanside, California; Newborn Photography

Helpful Birth Insights from a Mom and Newborn Photographer in Oceanside, California

Hey there, mama-to-be!

First off, congratulations on this amazing journey you’re on! I’m Heather, a mom of two wild and wonderful boys and a newborn photographer here in North County, San Diego. Between capturing those sweet, sleepy newborn moments and surviving the chaos of boy-mom life (why do they always climb everything?), I’ve learned a thing or two about what it takes to bring a baby into the world.

When I was pregnant, I felt like I read all the books and asked all the questions—and yet there were still so many surprises when the big day came. So, I thought I’d share a few things your doctor might not tell you about giving birth that could help other moms in our area feel more prepared. Think of this as the big-sister advice I wish someone had given me, sprinkled with a little honesty and a lot of love.

Carlsbad Newborn Photographer


1. Birthing positions can change everything.

Did you know you don’t have to stay flat on your back to give birth? Many women find other positions—like squatting, hands and knees, or even side-lying—help make labor easier and more comfortable. The position you choose can even help your baby navigate the birth canal more effectively.

When I had my youngest, I discovered that being upright and leaning on my partner helped me feel more in control and made contractions a bit more bearable. (Though let’s be real, nothing about labor feels easy—but you’ve got this!)

Ask your doctor: “What positions are you comfortable supporting me in during delivery?”

Pro Tip: For a deeper dive into birthing positions, check out Evidence-Based Birth.


2. You don’t have to give birth in a hospital.

Feeling like the sterile environment of a hospital isn’t for you? Home births or birthing centers might offer the more personal, relaxed experience you’re looking for. These options are especially popular among moms with low-risk pregnancies.

Locally, check out Best Start Birth Center in San Diego, one of California’s longest-running licensed birth centers. Their midwives are highly experienced and offer personalized care.

Ask your doctor: “Would you support me if I decided to explore a home or birth center delivery?”


3. You can eat and drink during labor.

Gone are the days when laboring women were told they couldn’t eat or drink. Light snacks and hydration can keep your energy up, especially during a long labor. (Because, let’s face it, giving birth is like running a marathon!)

Ask your care provider: “Are there specific situations where eating or drinking during labor wouldn’t be allowed?”

Carlsbad Newborn Photographer


4. Doulas are a game-changer.

A doula isn’t just a luxury—they’re an incredible support for both you and your partner during labor and postpartum. Doulas offer emotional and physical support, help with pain management, and advocate for your birth plan.

Locally, check out Oceanside Birth Doula Services or San Diego Birth Network for top-rated doulas who can guide you through this transformative time.

Ask your doctor: “Do you work with doulas? Do you have any recommendations?”


5. The power of water: birthing pools and showers.

Water can work wonders for labor! Warm showers or birthing pools ease discomfort, help you relax, and let you move more freely. Even if you don’t plan to give birth in water, spending part of your labor in it can make a huge difference.

Ask your provider: “Does the hospital or birth center offer water labor options like birthing pools?”


6. Epidurals aren’t the only pain relief option.

Epidurals are popular, but they’re not the only option for managing labor pain. Other choices include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, or even non-medical options like hypnobirthing, acupuncture, or massage.

Ask your doctor: “What pain management options do you recommend for someone hoping to go natural but staying open to an epidural?”

Carlsbad Newborn Photographer


7. Visualization and relaxation techniques can be transformative.

Labor isn’t just physical—it’s mental. Techniques like hypnobirthing, guided visualization, and even yoga breathing can help you stay calm, focused, and in tune with your body.

A great local resource is Carlsbad Village Yoga, which offers prenatal classes and mindfulness workshops tailored for expecting moms.

Ask your doctor: “Are there any relaxation techniques or classes you recommend?”


8. You can bring your own playlist to the delivery room.

Music isn’t just background noise—it’s a tool to create calm and focus during labor. Whether you’re into soothing instrumentals, nature sounds, or your favorite throwback playlist, it’s your choice.

Pro Tip: Check out Spotify’s Labor and Delivery Playlists for inspiration or create your own!


9. Cesarean sections aren’t as scary as they seem.

Yes, it’s surgery, but c-sections can also be life-saving and beautifully controlled. If you end up needing one, know that your medical team will guide you through every step to ensure you and your baby are safe.

Ask your doctor: “What situations would lead to a planned or emergency c-section in your practice?”

 


Carlsbad Newborn Photographer

So, there you have it, mama! I hope these tips make you feel more confident and excited about meeting your little one. And while you’re here, check out my Oceanside California Newborn Photography Portfolio to see how I can help you capture those precious first moments.

Now, just a quick disclaimer: I’m not a doctor, nurse, or any kind of health professional. I’m simply a mom and a newborn photographer who loves babies and has a big heart for mamas because we all share so much in common on this incredible journey. None of this information should be taken as law or set-in-stone advice—it’s just my own opinions and experiences. So, take it with a grain of salt and always trust your own gut.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a parent, it’s this: listening to your own heart should always come first. You’ve got this, mama!

Planning your own photos? Lets chat!

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Senior year flies by in a blur of “lasts”—last first day, last game, last late-night snack raid in your kitchen. And before you know it, they’re packing up for college or their next big adventure.⁣
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Senior Sundays! Your senior year is a time of celebration, achievement, and reflection. Why not do it justice with a photoshoot that captures you perfectly? With our guidance, fun sessions and relaxed environment, we aim to make your senior portraits more than just pictures. They're a celebration of you and your high school journey! 🎓🎉
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I’m so grateful for the kind words in this 5-star review and for the trust you’ve placed in me to document your family’s story through all the ages and stages. Building a lasting relationship with clients is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. ⁣
Thank you for letting me be part of your beautiful moments! 🌟💕

Wait… they’re leaving already?!" 😭⁣
⁣
Senior year flies by in a blur of “lasts”—last first day, last game, last late-night snack raid in your kitchen. And before you know it, they’re packing up for college or their next big adventure.⁣
⁣
That’s why I LOVE creating Senior Albums. ✨ These aren’t just photos; they’re a celebration of who they are right now—their laughter, their confidence, their dreams—all in one beautifully designed book. And let’s be real… it usually ends up being more for you than for them. Because when their room is suddenly too clean and a little too quiet, flipping through these pages will feel like a hug from the kid you raised. ❤⁣
⁣
P.S. 🎓 Senior sessions are booking NOW! Let’s get a date on the calendar—message or email me to chat about capturing this milestone for your senior!
Senior Sundays! Your senior year is a time of celebration, achievement, and reflection. Why not do it justice with a photoshoot that captures you perfectly? With our guidance, fun sessions and relaxed environment, we aim to make your senior portraits more than just pictures. They're a celebration of you and your high school journey! 🎓🎉
From engagement to wedding and through all the family milestones, it’s been an absolute joy to capture your journey as a family!⁣
⁣
I’m so grateful for the kind words in this 5-star review and for the trust you’ve placed in me to document your family’s story through all the ages and stages. Building a lasting relationship with clients is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. ⁣
Thank you for letting me be part of your beautiful moments! 🌟💕

email directly:

heather@vallentynephotography.com

760-672-2416

located in oceanside, california