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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I thought my water may have partially broke late Wed night, and had a Dr. Appt the following morning so decided to wait until then to get checked since I wasn't having any contractions. I got up that morning, went to the gym and got a good workout in, then went to my Dr. Appt and Sure enough my water was fully ruptured! The Dr. discovered I had preeclampsia at that appt too, so wanted to induce labor and get contractions going right away for the baby to get out as soon as possible.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I wasn't sure I would be able to handle the pain. Especially after now having to be given pitocin.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Working out regularly which included weight lifting to prepare my body to be strong for childbirth. Also working with a doula to help prepare me mentally.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it was. The Dr. gave me a little pitocin to kick start my body into contractions. An hour later they turned the pitocin off since my body responded so well and was doing everything on its own at that point. My total labor once contractions started was only 3 1/2 hours and my baby was out in 2 pushes! I'm so glad I didn't get the epidural the Dr. was pushing me to get...I was able to feel exactly when to push to get her out.
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You CAN do it! Prepare your body physically and mentally, have great support and an advocate in the room with you, and remember the pain you are feeling isn't harming you, it's helping your baby come out to finally meet you! :)
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Low deep moans and switching positions a few times.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Lying on my back
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Surreal, I almost felt like I was having an out of body experience!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You CAN do it! Prepare your body physically and mentally, have great support and an advocate in the room with you, and remember the pain you are feeling isn't harming you, it's helping your baby come out to finally meet you! :)
