Houston Maternity and Newborn Photographer: 10 Things Your Doctor Never Told You About Giving Birth
If you are pregnant and preparing to give birth in Houston, choosing a Houston maternity and newborn photographer is often one of the first ways moms begin planning how they want to remember this season. While doctor visits focus on medical care, there are many parts of birth that are not always discussed in appointments.
As a Houston maternity and newborn photographer, I work with expecting moms every week and hear stories that begin with, “I wish someone had told me this.” Today, I am sharing 10 things your doctor may not have told you about giving birth, along with thoughtful questions you can ask as you prepare to welcome your baby.
1. You Do Not Have to Give Birth in a Hospital
Hospital births are common, but they are not the only option. Some families choose home births or birth centers, which can offer a calmer and more personal environment.
For low-risk pregnancies, these options can be safe when supported by trained professionals. You can learn more about birth settings through the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists at https://www.acog.org.
Question for your doctor:
Would you support me working with a home birth midwife or birth center if I chose this option?
2. Epidurals Are Not the Only Pain Relief Option
Epidurals are widely used, but other pain relief options may be available depending on where you deliver. These can include nitrous oxide, spinal blocks, breathing techniques, massage, movement, and hypnobirthing.
Each Houston hospital has different policies, so it is helpful to ask early.
Question for your doctor:
What pain relief options do you see working well besides epidurals?
3. You Can Bring Your Own Music or Sounds
Music can help create a calm environment during labor. Worship music, soft playlists, white noise, or guided meditations can help you feel more relaxed and focused.
This small detail often makes a big difference for moms during labor.
Question for your doctor:
Can I bring music or a sound machine into the delivery room?
4. Water Can Help You Relax During Labor
Warm water can ease contractions and help your body relax. Some hospitals offer birthing tubs or showers, and birth centers often include water labor options.
Even using water during labor without delivering in it can be very comforting.
Question for your doctor:
Are birthing tubs available, or can I use water during labor?
5. You Will Probably Poop During Labor and That Is Normal
Many moms are surprised by this, but it is completely normal. It simply means your body is working as it should.
Doctors and nurses expect this and do not think twice about it.
6. There Are Many Positions You Can Give Birth In
You do not have to give birth flat on your back. Standing, squatting, side-lying, hands and knees, or using a birthing stool are all options that may help labor progress.
Changing positions can also improve comfort.
Question for your doctor:
What birthing positions are you comfortable supporting?
7. Doulas Provide Support Beyond Labor
A doula offers emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Many Houston families find doulas helpful for reassurance and advocacy.
You can learn more about doula support through DONA International at https://www.dona.org.
Question for your doctor:
Do you work with doulas often? Are there any you recommend?
8. You May Be Allowed to Eat and Drink During Labor
In many cases, light snacks and fluids are allowed and can help maintain your energy. Policies vary based on the hospital and your situation.
Question for your doctor:
Under what circumstances would I not be allowed to eat or drink during labor?
9. Your Mindset Can Affect Your Labor Experience
Visualization, breathing exercises, prayer, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help you stay calm and focused. Preparing mentally can help your body work more efficiently during labor.
Evidence-based education on birth can be found at https://evidencebasedbirth.com.
Question for your doctor:
Is there anything I can do now to better prepare mentally for labor?
10. C-Sections Are More Common Than You Might Think
C-sections can be planned or unplanned, and they are often necessary to keep both mom and baby safe. I had three. While they may not be part of your original birth plan, they are a common and important part of childbirth.
What matters most is a healthy outcome and feeling supported throughout the process.
Question for your doctor:
In what situations do you recommend or perform C-sections?
Expecting a Baby in Houston and Searching for a Maternity and Newborn Photographer?
Pregnancy and the newborn stage pass quickly. Many families tell me how grateful they are to have professional images that document this season from pregnancy through those first newborn days.
If you are expecting and looking for a Houston maternity and newborn photographer, I offer a calm, guided, full-service experience designed for busy moms who want beautiful images and meaningful artwork for their home..
👉 View my maternity portfolio here
👉 View my newborn portfolio here
👉 Inquire about availability for your due date
Newborn sessions are limited each month to allow flexibility around due dates. We can’t wait for your session!
Lots of Love,
Shannon
Houston maternity and newborn photographer documenting pregnancy
