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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I was talking to my best friend on the phone telling her that I was leaking fluid every time I had a contraction (that I thought was just Braxton Hicks, even though they were stronger than they had been) and she told me that it sounded to her like my water broke. She just confirmed what I was already thinking.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I never thought about it because I was at home and didn't have the option to NOT go natural. But, it really never even crossed my mind. I was just letting my body do what it had to do.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Bradley childbirth classes, the Brewer diet and reading books. Ina May's Guide to Childbirth was by far the most helpful with the positive birth stories.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised how well I handled the pain. I wouldn't even call it pain. It was more like intensity. It was so hard, especially at the end, and I never once thought that I couldn't do it. As one that usually quits when things get too hard, that surprised me about myself.
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Don't feel guilty if it doesn't happen the way you envisioned. Be humble enough to know that natural birth is just that, nature taking its course. You only have so much control over it. And...YOU CAN DO IT!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Moving around
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Propped up on my bed. Probably like you would in a hospital setting. I never thought I would give birth in this position and I wonder if it made pushing harder, but after trying different positions in the birth pool, my midwife recommended I try it and that's how she was born.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
A-maz-ing. Sweet relief was my first thought. Haha! But, after 8 very hard (and joyous with 3 adoptions) years of infertility it was the most amazing moment of my life.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Educate yourself about birth. That is the most important thing in my opinion because it takes away the fear. And don't say "I'd like to try". Just set your mind to it. But, being mindful that sometimes we need intervention. Even if it's just an epidural to help you relax. Don't feel guilty if it doesn't happen the way you envisioned. Be humble enough to know that natural birth is just that, nature taking its course. You only have so much control over it. And...YOU CAN DO IT! ;)
