God’s Design or Trending Birth Practices: Choosing a Faith-based Approach to Childbirth

Childbirth is such a beautiful, life-changing experience, but I know it can also feel overwhelming. With so many different methods and philosophies out there, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. As a Christian, the most important question we can ask is: How does God want us to approach this precious moment? The world offers so many options, but the foundation of our faith and trust in God’s design for birth is the most empowering and peace-giving approach we can have.

Unfortunately, in today’s birthing culture, many of the methods being promoted are based on new-age philosophies that don’t align with the truth of Scripture. These practices might feel comforting or empowering, but they can often pull us away from fully trusting in God's plan and sovereignty. And as Christian women, we deserve an approach to childbirth that honors God and His perfect design.

New-Age Practices: A Different Path

I’ve seen and heard about a lot of trendy practices in the birthing world, and while they may seem like harmless alternatives, they can sometimes lead us down a path that isn’t truly for our good nor God’s glory. Here are some practices that are becoming more common:

1. Placenta Consumption
Some believe eating the placenta can boost postpartum recovery and reduce depression. However, this practice lacks scientific support and can pose risks, such as infections and toxins. Real-life cases have shown negative health consequences like fever and bacterial infections after consumption. Dear mama, be careful with adopting practices not rooted in God’s design.

Consequences: Deuteronomy 28:57 speaks of women, under a curse for disobedience, resorting to eating their own children during a time of darkness: "Because of the suffering your enemy will inflict on you during the siege, you will eat the fruit of the womb, the flesh of the sons and daughters the LORD your God has given you." (Deuteronomy 28:57). This tragic consequence highlights how, in a state of curse, people turn to unnatural practices. As free, redeemed women in Christ, we are called to trust God's perfect plan for our bodies, walking in His light—not in man-made, unproven methods.

2. Hypnobirthing: This practice focuses on using relaxation and forms of hypnosis to reduce pain during birth, often relying on mind-body techniques that ignore the sovereignty of God. As believers, we know that it is God's grace that carries us through every moment of labor. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.'"
Consequences: Some women who rely solely on hypnobirthing have experienced births where they cannot remember making certain decisions during their labor and delivery. Others have had prolonged labor or failed pain management when the birth becomes more intense or complicated. In some cases, this has led to unnecessary stress, emotional trauma, and even an inability to recognize when medical intervention is absolutely necessary.

3. Energy Healing and Crystals: Some people turn to crystals, rituals/ceremonies or energy work to prepare for birth, but these practices focus on the creation instead of the Creator. God is the one who designed us, and He alone holds the power over life. Colossians 1:16-17 says, "For by Him all things were created... all things were created through Him and for Him."
Consequences: While many people believe that energy healing and crystals are harmless, they can lead people away from seeking true healing in God. Some mothers have reported feeling confused and spiritually unsettled after focusing on such practices, and in some instances, it has led to a lack of trust in God’s power to heal and sustain them during labor.

4. Birthing "Goddess" Worship: There are those who emphasize calling on "goddess" energy or spirit guides during childbirth. As Christians, we are called to worship God alone. Exodus 20:3 tells us, "You shall have no other gods before Me."
Consequences: The focus on spiritual entities outside of God’s sovereignty can open doors to spiritual confusion and even oppression. There have been reports of women feeling disconnected from their faith after engaging in such practices, and some have experienced anxiety or fear during labor as a result of invoking these energies.

While these practices may seem empowering in the moment, they take our focus off God’s perfect design and can distract us from what truly matters: trusting in God’s will for our birth journey.

Christian Childbirth Education: Rooted in Truth and Faith

So, why is Christian childbirth education so important? It’s because it’s grounded in truth, and it honors God’s plan for us as women, as mothers, and as daughters of the King. Christian childbirth education isn’t about controlling the experience or forcing a certain outcome—it’s about submitting to God’s design, trusting in His timing, and finding peace in knowing that He is with us every step of the way.

Here’s why I believe so strongly in this faith-centered approach:

1. Trusting God in Every Moment
   Childbirth can be hard, and it’s okay to admit that. But it’s also a time to lean on God’s strength. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." We don’t have to rely on our own abilities; God’s grace will carry us through.

2. Embracing the Sanctity of Life
   Every child is a gift from God. Psalm 127:3 tells us, "Children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward." Understanding this helps us honor the birth process as a truly special moment—a reflection of God’s goodness.

3. Holistic Preparation
   Christian childbirth education isn’t just about the physical aspects of birth—it’s about preparing our hearts, minds, and spirits. Birth is both a physical and a spiritual experience, and we can approach it with confidence, knowing that God is with us. Isaiah 41:10 says, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God." His presence is the greatest comfort during labor.

4. Surrendering to God’s Plan
   Instead of focusing on controlling or manipulating the birth process, Christian childbirth education teaches us to surrender our fears and anxieties to God. He is in control, and we can trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 is a beautiful reminder: "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

The World’s Way vs. God’s Way

The world tells us that we need to take control, that we need to "manifest" our perfect birth, and that we hold all the power. But as Christians, we know the truth: God is the one in control, and He is good.

In the end, it’s not about how much we can control, but about how much we can trust in God’s plan for our lives and our families. Birth is a truly life-changing moment and we should approach it with full confidence that God is with us.

If you’re ready to experience childbirth education that’s grounded in faith, rooted in truth, and centered on God’s love, I’d be honored to walk this journey with you. Let’s embrace His design for birth, together.

- The Delivery Room (for Your Mind)