Is it really possible to connect with your baby before they are born?
The answer is YES!
If you can believe it, babies have a bond with their mothers before they are even born. Around 20 weeks, a baby in utero can actually feel touch from the outside.
Connection is real and can be so powerful. We were so excited when we got to hear a story from our good friend, Beth, about how her connection with her baby changed her outcome in her labor that could have ended in a repeat Cesarean.
Her water broke around 37 weeks pregnant and labor didn’t start for quite some time. Once Beth was 5cm, the midwife team did a cervical check and felt a hand.
Her baby’s hand was up over her head and causing things to not be able to progress well.
The C-section talk was happening and Beth wanted to make sure it didn’t happen. She connected with her baby both by talking and actually feeling her baby’s hand.
After attempts from providers and no movement, this sweet baby listened to her mom and moved her hand.
The importance of mother-baby bonding
Having a loving mother that is bonded to her baby is very important for the long term physical, emotional, and even physical development of a child.
Evidence from a new branch of science called epigenetics is showing the impact of early, and even prenatal bonding on a child brain development. You can read more about that here.
Don’t worry if you aren’t doing everything perfectly, none of us are. The evidence show that the most important thing you can do for your children is LOVE them.
So the question is…
What things can you do to connect to your baby while in utero?
Touch your belly
As mentioned above, your baby can actually feel your touch at 20 weeks.
Talk to your baby
By the time they are born, they will be able to identify your voice. Have your birth partner and/or children talk or sing to your baby.
Listen to your baby
Tune into your baby and feel their connection with you.
Sing to your baby
Singing to your baby can be very powerful, especially when your baby comes out. Have you ever heard of a womb song? Check out another friend named Beth. She writes womb songs for babies and it’s pretty amazing!
Overall, it is so important to take some time for yourself and your baby.
Even if it’s just five minutes a day, take that time and do what you feel is the best way for you and your baby to tune into one another.
Remember, this may not look like anything listed above and may just be closing your eyes and going internal, imagining what your sweet baby looks like and what your birth journey may look like. This can truly help you prep for your birthing day.
Check our out podcast! Episode 65 is all about Beth who had the most amazing connection with her baby!
Feeling unprepared for your VBAC? Our Ultimate VBAC Course for Parents covers everything you need to know.
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