Jacquelyn's Uplifting Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had actually already been in labor for 24 hours before realizing "this was it". I was 42 weeks pregnant and was used to having semi-regular Braxton Hicks contractions, so at first I thought that's what they were. Once I couldn't sleep anymore between contractions, I kind of knew I was in labor, but was still in denial. I went to the birth center fully expecting them to send me home, even though I could barely speak, but I was dilated to a 5 and that's when I finally was convinced!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

My midwives told me it would be the exhaustion, and they were right. Since I was 2 weeks "overdue" I was so anxious and couldn't sleep most nights. I stayed up when I started feeling any contractions because I was afraid to go to sleep and have them go away. That was a mistake, and next time, I will sleep as long as possible during early labor! Towards the end I was falling asleep in the birth pool between contractions.

What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?

I read a lot of books and birth stories, and never once considered NOT going natural. A lot of people were wary of my decision but I think that just made me even more determined to have the natural birth I wanted. I also took prenatal yoga which helped keep me in shape and taught me breathing exercises.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised that pushing took so long (almost 2.5 hours) for me but I was also surprised how invigorated I felt after my baby was born! Seriously, I felt on top of the world. I was standing up within an hour and was all of a sudden so hungry and thirsty. I remember being frustrated that the discharge instructions were taking so long because I just wanted to get in the car and eat some chicken fingers!

Don't ever let anyone discourage you- convert their negative energy into positive energy and determination. Remember the women who have been there before you, and those who are laboring around the world at the same time as you.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Being in the water was definitely the best way to manage the pain. When I was laboring at home I wanted to just stay in the bathtub but it was thunderstorming outside, and I was afraid to get electrocuted (is that a real thing?). Once I got to the birth center I labored for three hours before they filled the birthing pool, and getting in the water was just the BEST thing. I also tried sterile water injections for back labor, and they worked the first time when I was 5cm, but the second time I tried them they hurt more than the contractions. Counter pressure by my doula and my husband was also a relief.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up delivering on my back. After pushing for nearly 2 hours in the water, my midwife had me get out and my baby was delivered within 20 minutes. She told me later that she was going to have my get on the birthing stool, but I just seemed too exhausted.

How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?

It was AMAZING! I remember thinking her skin felt so soft and all of the pain, exhaustion, etc. immediately disappeared. I felt relief and joy and love all at the same time. It was surreal and by far the best moment of my life.

What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?

You can do it!! We were made for this. Trust your body and your baby. Have a good support system such as your husband, your doula, and your midwife. Definitely get a doula, especially if this is your first baby. Don't ever let anyone discourage you- convert their negative energy into positive energy and determination. Remember the women who have been there before you, and those who are laboring around the world at the same time as you. Remember that as soon as your baby is born, any pain/worry/whatever you're feeling will be replaced with overwhelming happiness and joy. Trust your body and your baby, I can't say that enough.