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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I woke up from my nap with intense contractions. I went downstairs and started timing them. They were already 2 minutes apart!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
This was my 3rd natural birth, and the easiest. I believe it was the easiest because of how fast it went!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
To prepare for my first childbirth, my husband and I took the Bradley Method classes. We found these very helpful, as they explained to us what a natural childbirth looked like and ways to achieve the birth we wanted. I also found it helpful to write up a birth plan and share it with my midwife prior to the birth.
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What surprised you about your birth?
My very fast labor/delivery is what surprised me the most! I started timing contractions at 2:30, my water broke at 2:40, and my baby girl was born at 3:08!
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Keep in mind that things don't always go according to our plans. In the end, all that matters is a healthy mama and a healthy baby!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
In the moment, it was hard for me to remember some of the strategies I knew would work. I was a bit scared, since our baby girl was coming so fast and we ended up with an unplanned, unassisted home birth. In my head I kept repeating the verse from Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength".
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was on all fours for some of the pushing, and then switched to laying on my side.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was the most wonderful feeling ever! It was also amazing because my husband had delivered our baby girl, all on his own. And, it was such a relief that both her and I were doing o.k.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Make sure you have someone that supports you and will follow the plan that you want for your birth. But, also keep in mind that things don't always go according to our plans. In the end, all that matters is a healthy mama and a healthy baby!
