-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
My contractions were getting stronger and closer together, and did not stop when I would lay down or eat/drink.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
With a hospital birth, the temptation to succumb to medication is strong. It took a huge amount of mental focus and willpower to stick to my plan for natural birth, when I knew that I could have the drugs at any moment!
-
image2
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I immersed myself in reading material, and hired a doula! Ina May's Guide to Childbirth was a wonderful resource. Being a VBAC mama, I knew I needed to have all the support and education possible to achieve my goal of a natural delivery.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
I progressed rather quickly, despite never giving birth vaginally before (my first baby was born via cesarean section). I was expecting this long, drawn out labor, and it wasn't like that at all. I was also surprised about how uncomfortable the pushing stage was for me. I expected to have relief during that phase, but it was definitely a challenge!
-
Educate yourself. Remember that you have choices in childbirth and that YOU are the captain of the ship!
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Deep breathing, "horse lips", swaying hips and staying up and moving. I could not imagine being still or confined to a bed during labor!
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
Semi-sitting.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I was shocked and amazed at how instantly I fell in love. There was a sense of huge accomplishment to have a VBAC, and I can remember looking at my daughter and thinking "Wow, I really just did that!" She was so alert and latched on immediately, she was not groggy at all like my son was when he was born.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Trust your body and your baby. Take each contraction one at a time and think about the beautiful prize that will be in your arms very soon. Prepare yourself mentally and physically, and rest/keep hydrated during early labor. Educate yourself. Remember that you have choices in childbirth and that YOU are the captain of the ship!
