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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was really in labor when contractions continued to come even after a long relaxing bath and a small glass of wine (per recommendation by my midwife).
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Probably the most challenging thing about having (or wanting) a natural birth was all the nay-sayers that said it wasn't likely and how a home birth wasn't a good idea. My husband and I quickly realized that we had to protect our minds from doubt creeping in and only told a few select people what we were trying to accomplish with a natural birth at home. It can be done!! During labor the hardest part was going through transition; it most definitely wasn't pain-free (ouch), but we are more resilient than we think we are.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was take a childbirth education course! That opened up my world to other resources and knowledge (books, organizations, birth stories, birth professionals and other village members). It was an amazing gift!
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What surprised you about your birth?
What surprised me the most about my birth is how disconnected to the world I was. I had entered "Birth Land"... I knew my husband was there and my birth team, but all I could focus on was myself and baby. I climbed the birth summit by myself; it felt so primal and natural. Wow, our bodies are so made for this!
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I climbed the birth summit by myself; it felt so primal and natural. Wow, our bodies are so made for this!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Walking and moving (I couldn't lay down); warm shower, but the most relief was the tub!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Hands and knees in the birth tub.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
RELIEF! I reached down and pulled my baby up to me and was just in awe. Amazed that my body did it and relieved labor was over. I felt drunk on love. The hormones were amazing. And the instant love and connection with this little person was nothing I've ever felt before.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Build your village now. Find like-minded people to surround yourself with who will love and support you. Supportive caregivers, knowledgeable educators, friends to walk through this journey with, a loving partner, and even people to cook and clean for you postpartum. The village is vital!
