Reading Bradley Method Book And Taking Mama Natural Birth Course Helped Natalie Achieve Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

At first, I thought that I was getting food poisoning!! So silly, looking back. After I realized that what I thought were intestinal cramps were coming on a regular basis in waves, I knew it was probably the start of labor.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Honestly, the anticipation was the worst. I heard so many stories about how overwhelming the pain would be and how I would be screaming for drugs before it was over! In reality, though, I sort of got down to business once labor started and it was not nearly as bad as I built it up to be in my mind.

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

Research! My husband and I read both Bradley method books and took the Mama Natural Birth Course. I felt like knowing as much as possible helped me to feel mentally prepared - and labor is so much a mental game!

What surprised you about your birth?

I was honesty surprised by how smoothly it went and how well I could cope (laboring in the tub was a big help). I didn’t use most of the techniques we learned, but found that breathing through the contractions and trying to be extremely relaxed - almost asleep - worked well for me. My son was posterior, too! I was also surprised by how on board the hospital was with natural birth. They never offered me any sort of drugs and were very encouraging, even after two hours of pushing.

I’m an information junkie, so I thought that the class was good for helping me know what to expect in all stages of labor.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Laboring in the tub was super nice. The hospital required me to come out from time to time to check the baby’s heartbeat, but I was able to spend a good bit of time in the water. Other than that, just being super relaxed, controlling my breathing, and being really mentally focused worked for me.

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

So so crazy!!! I could hardly believe that this red, screaming, perfect boy had just come out of my body! It was a surreal experience.

What did you name your baby, and why?

Walter, after an amazing and holy Catholic priest named Fr. Walter Ciszek.

How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?

I’m an information junkie, so I thought that the class was good for helping me know what to expect in all stages of labor.