-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
Around 3:30am when my contractions went from being 8 minutes apart and very mild to 2-3 minutes apart and getting more painful.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The contraction pain near the end was super intense, and not knowing how long it would last was the hardest part.
-
IMG_1742
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I had an episiotomy with my first baby, and so my midwife recommended that I do perineal massage starting around 35 weeks. I did this (almost) every day until I gave birth. No episiotomy the second time around! Whether it was the massage or just it being my second baby I'm not sure, but I'm happy either way.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
How fast the second stage was, only 2 minutes and no real forceful pushing!
-
The contraction pain near the end was super intense, and not knowing how long it would last was the hardest part.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
We tried some acupressure, but I couldn't stand anyone touching my back so only did a little bit of the point on my hand. Not sure it made that much of a difference. I would say two things helped me immensely. First I was in the tub for about an hour and I found it really helped me relax. Eventually I felt the need to get out of the tub, and at that time my best pain relief was position. If I tried lying down in any form it was unbearable, but we put the head of the bed in an upwards position and I stayed on my knees and leaned over the head of the bed. Trying to focus on my breathing helped too, but near the end I found it very hard to stay focused on that.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
I was in the same position as I mentioned above. On my knees on the bed while leaning over the head of the bed.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Incredible!! Hard to describe the feeling but it is the best in the world!!
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do your homework beforehand and prepare yourself for (some of) the multitude of things that can happen. Know a bunch of different techniques that can help you to deal with pain and ensure you have an amazing support system of others in place. You will lean on them, emotionally and physically during labour. I know I couldn't have got through it without my husband, my mom and my midwife! Have faith in yourself and know it really will end eventually!!
