Preparing for Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum in Uncertain Times

After Hurricane Helene swept through, it became clear that life can change in an instant. As a doula, I know firsthand how important it is to be prepared for the unexpected, but even I was reminded of how vulnerable we can be when disaster strikes. One area of concern that particularly stood out to me was how critical it is to be prepared for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum—especially when things don’t go according to plan.

Whether it’s a hurricane, snowstorm, or a sudden roadblock on your journey to the hospital, unexpected events can create chaos in the most important moments of your life. That’s why I’m sharing some crucial ways you can prepare for the unpredictable and how to handle an unplanned home birth when faced with an emergency.

1. Have a Go-Bag Ready for Both Planned and Unplanned Scenarios

Just like you’d prepare for a hospital birth, having a go-bag ready at all times is essential. This bag should include all the essentials you’d need for a planned hospital birth but should also include supplies that could support an unplanned home birth. Some helpful items to have on hand include:

•Clean towels and sheets

•Sterile gloves

•A bulb syringe to clear the baby’s airways

•Scissors (preferably sterile) to cut the umbilical cord

•A large trash bag for potential mess

•Bottled water for hydration and cleaning

•A flashlight or battery-operated lantern in case of a power outage

While we always hope to have access to medical facilities, having these basics can help bridge the gap during an emergency.

2. Know the Basics of Birth and Postpartum Care

If you're expecting, take the time to familiarize yourself with the stages of labor, signs of potential complications, and how to assist in an emergency birth. You don't need to become an expert, but having a basic understanding can make all the difference in a high-stress situation.

Here are a few essential tips:

•Stay calm: Anxiety can make things more difficult for both you and the baby. If possible, practice deep breathing to keep your stress levels down.

•Recognize when labor has progressed: If contractions are consistently getting closer together and increasing in intensity, you might not make it to your intended birth location. Pay attention to the signs.

•Support the mother in finding a comfortable position: This could be lying on her side, on all fours, or squatting. The mother’s instinct will guide her toward what feels right.

•Catch the baby safely: If you’re supporting someone else, make sure the baby is born onto a soft surface like a clean towel. Once the baby is out, gently clear the airways if needed and dry the baby to keep them warm.

•Wait for medical assistance before cutting the cord: Unless absolutely necessary, let professionals handle the umbilical cord. Skin-to-skin contact and keeping the baby warm are your top priorities after birth.

3. Have a Backup Plan for Communication and Support

During natural disasters, power outages, and communication blackouts can make it difficult to reach your birth team. Make sure you have an alternative method to communicate, whether it’s a charged phone battery, walkie-talkies, or a designated family member who can relay information. Have a list of emergency contacts and numbers saved in multiple locations, and consider having a friend or family member nearby in case your doula, midwife, or OB can’t reach you.

4. Postpartum Considerations During Emergencies

After the baby is born, postpartum care is essential for both the mother and baby’s well-being. Without access to healthcare professionals, it’s important to know what to look for in terms of warning signs and how to create a safe and supportive environment at home.

Some things to keep in mind:

•Rest and hydration: The postpartum body needs extra rest and fluids, especially in high-stress scenarios. Have plenty of water and nutrient-dense snacks on hand.

•Keep the baby’s umbilical stump clean: Cleanliness is key to preventing infection. Gently wipe the stump with water and keep it dry.

•Monitor for signs of postpartum hemorrhage: This is a rare but serious condition that requires immediate attention. If you experience heavy bleeding, seek medical help as soon as possible.

•Have a postpartum doula on call: Having someone you can reach out to for advice or support (even virtually) can ease some of the stress and uncertainty. This is where doulas like myself can offer invaluable guidance during unexpected events.

5. The Importance of Mental and Emotional Preparedness

Just as you prepare physically for birth, it’s equally important to prepare mentally and emotionally. During emergencies, fear and anxiety can cloud your judgment. Take time during your pregnancy to think through emergency scenarios, and create a flexible birth plan that includes contingencies. Prayer, meditation, and deep breathing techniques can also help center you when everything else feels out of control.

How to Handle an Unplanned Home Birth During a Disaster

An unplanned home birth due to an emergency like a hurricane may seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can stay as calm and safe as possible. If you're unable to reach a hospital or your birth team, here are the most critical steps:

•Call 911 immediately and explain your situation.

•Stay as calm as you can and trust that your body was designed to do this.

•Follow the cues of your body. When it’s time to push, let your body lead. Once the baby is born, keep them warm with towels or blankets and get skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible.

•Don’t panic if you’re alone. Many births happen without intervention. Your priority is keeping you and your baby as safe and warm as possible until help arrives.

•Have faith. As challenging as the situation may be, you’ve been designed for this process. Trust in God’s plan and let your body guide you.

Emergencies like Hurricane Helene have shown just how unpredictable life can be. While we can’t always control our circumstances, we can prepare our minds, bodies, and spirits for the unexpected. Whether you're expecting a baby or already in the postpartum period, take time to prepare now so you can navigate emergencies with peace of mind.

In birth and in life, preparation, faith, and community make all the difference. Let’s stay ready, stay calm, and stay connected.

I hope this blog helps you feel empowered and prepared as we all navigate life’s uncertainties together. If you have any questions about creating an emergency birth plan or need support as you prepare for your little one, I’m here for you. Reach out anytime.

Disclaimer: While I am a certified doula, I am not a medical professional. The information shared here is based on my experience and training in supporting women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Always consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice and guidance, especially during emergencies. My goal is to offer tips to help you prepare for the unexpected, but this does not replace professional medical care.