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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My contractions started after my midwife stripped my membranes. I knew it was real labor after I tried to lay down and rest and they just constantly were coming 2-3 minutes apart.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
My labor was very fast this time. My previous two children I was induced, so I wasn't sure if my labor would be fast or slow without any drugs. There wasn't much of a space between contractions, making it hard to relax and stay focused.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read Ina Mays book, as well as watched a lot of labor/delivery movies on YouTube. I practiced breathing as well as tried to focus on other things.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised that from stripping my membranes til my baby was born was only 5 1/2 hours. It was a fast labor, and although intense very easy. My husband and I walked around the neighborhood, and when it became more intense, I listened to music and leaned over my couch as it was the most comfortable. My son was 10 lbs 5 oz and I had minor tearing due to positioning and wonderful care from my midwife.
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Prepare yourself, practice breathing, find a way to get your mind off the pain. It is a temporary pain that results in a beautiful baby, your body was made to do it!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing, walking, listening to music and praying. I knew that God would help me get through and in the end I would have my baby!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my knees leaned against my couch.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! It was wonderful to discover it was a boy! So fun to see how he looked like my other children too.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Prepare yourself, practice breathing, find a way to get your mind off the pain. It is a temporary pain that results in a beautiful baby, your body was made to do it!
