Empowering Birth: About the AMC Sensory Suite
June 5, 2024
Imagine stepping into a space where every sense is delicately catered to, where the atmosphere is designed to soothe, calm, and empower you as the gentle sounds of nature play softly in the background, creating an atmosphere of peace and serenity. This is the reality of the sensory birthing suite at the Aastrika Midwifery Centre.
The surroundings in which a mother gives birth significantly affect her physical and emotional well-being, as well as the health and comfort of her newborn. Sensory birthing embraces this concept, aiming to enhance relaxation, alleviate pain, and strengthen bonding throughout labour and delivery.
However, sensory birthing is more than just ambience. It’s about creating a space that helps with relaxation, pain relief, and bonding during labour and delivery. Sensory experience plays a crucial role in shaping the birthing process, influencing everything from the mother’s stress levels to the baby’s well-being.
For mothers, the benefits are many. Enhanced relaxation not only helps reduce pain but also makes labour smoother and more efficient. In a sensory-rich environment, mothers can let go of fear and tension, allowing their bodies to work naturally during childbirth. As labour progresses, they find comfort in their soothing surroundings, feeling supported every step of the way.
We believe in the philosophy of creating a collaborative environment where mothers actively participate in their own care is central to this approach. It empowers mothers by involving them in choices about their birthing environment, from selecting soothing music to deciding on lighting and visual aids. This involvement helps mothers realise their mental, physical, and emotional strengths, fostering a sense of control and confidence during labour.
The most profound impact of sensory birthing lies in its ability to foster bonding between mother and baby. It is about encouraging that immediate, uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact between the mother and baby. It’s not just a sweet moment; studies show it helps strengthen their bond, steady the baby’s heart rate, and regulate their temperature. And at Aastrika Midwifery Centre, this focus on sensory experiences doesn’t stop when the baby arrives. We make sure that right from the get-go, mother and baby can connect on a deeper level.
At Aastrika, the goal is to support normal birthing whenever possible, and sensory birthing aligns perfectly with this philosophy by fostering a more natural and less invasive birthing experience. Studies have shown that this way of birthing can lead to fewer medical interventions during labour and delivery.
Every birth is unique and beautiful, and our approach reflects this belief by honouring the innate strength and capabilities of every mother.