Hot Water and Hip Squeeze Helped Beka Achieve Her Natural Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I woke up from a nap after my water had been broken for a day and a half (my midwife was monitoring me, we had a fluid check ultrasound & I was checking my temperature every 4 hours) with some regular contractions. Then I got my toddler up from her nap and sat my birth ball and l timed my contractions until my husband got home from work. By the time my husband arrived home my Doula and midwife were on the way and he dropped my daughter off at her grandparents house.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I had a very emotional pregnancy, I tragically lost my little brother when I was six months pregnant. I knew I had the physical strength to have another natural birth, but I was surprised about how emotional I was during my son's birth.

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

I practiced Hypnobabies relaxation techniques, stayed active with my toddler, and rested when I could

What surprised you about your birth?

My water had broken almost 2 days before I gave birth but the bag repaired itself and my son was almost born in the caul.

Have a great support system: make sure that you trust your provider and hire a Doula if you can!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Hip squeeze and hot water in the birth pool

What position did you end up delivering in?

Supine

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

I felt so relieved to finally meet my son and hug him.

What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?

Have a great support system: make sure that you trust your provider and hire a Doula if you can!