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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I had water leakage at about 1 AM - I had lost my mucus plug at about 7PM the previous night.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not much. I did a lot of research and planning surrounding how I wanted to experience birth. This was based on watching Rikki Lake's "The Business of Being Born", and not wanting to go through what my mother went through - 3 very "Hospital"-y births. All of the resources to avoid this kind of experience are out there - it was easy to find a birth center and a doula. I also recommend Ina May Gaskin's book, "Guide to Childbirth".
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
We took a birthing class locally that was very helpful. If you find a class that aligns with your own philosophy, it really helps (same for healthcare providers). The class had a mom & dad (& their new baby) in to tell their birth experience (so awesome to see a new baby and hear the parents talk frankly to us). The class was also very positive about breastfeeding and warned about using medications during birth. Also, I had a doula. She was helpful for both my husband and myself. Nurse midwives are awesome, but they are not 100% your birth coach. And my husband, though loving, was not exactly "in the know". Get a doula!! (interview a few and choose one)
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What surprised you about your birth?
Learning what they meant by "pushing". You don't get it til you get it, but it is intense. I needed the coaching of both the nurse midwife and my doula to understand what needed to happen.
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Do your research. Find others who are like-minded. Make a list of the things you want (but be prepared to give them up if needed).
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Lowering my voice during contractions and doing some chanting/rhythmic sounds. A heatpack on my back/neck (doula had it in her pack). Breathing through the contractions/counting...
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Squatting in a tub
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
So awesome. They asked me the baby's name during birthing, and though we said her name, I didn't really believe she'd be real until I was holding her.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do your research. Find others who are like-minded. Make a list of the things you want (but be prepared to give them up if needed). For my next birth experience, I am hoping to have a home birth! (You don't even know how painful it is to ride in a car anywhere when you are in labor... every little bump felt like it was causing a contraction for me).
