-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
When the contractions became very sharp. Also I had bloody show. Not sure if this is really a sign but my older female cat was very snuggly and stayed close to me when I went into labor.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The pain towards the end was pretty intense and while I was pushing. I was very close to giving up but then my midwife, her intern and my husband cheered me on. I kept saying okay. I was telling myself, it's okay, you can do this!
-
IMG_20161229_161138
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I did a lot of squats and squatting down (stretching). It helps with moving baby down and preventing tearing. I have had three vaginal births and haven't tore on any of them. I also told myself that I can do this while imagining it happening peacefully and easily. Whenever fear came in I took a deep breathe and encouraged myself with words. I took a homeopathic that is like rescue remedy that really helped too.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
My little man had his hand up by his head which made it more difficult. I didn't know until afterwards. Also just the fact that I did it. I didn't think I could handle that much pain. My placenta wouldn't come out so I ended up going to the hospital in an ambulance. That was a bit scary and surprising.
-
The pain that you feel for a moment in time is worth not having that drug or needle.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Walking in the fresh air. My midwifes intern squeezed my hips together while I was contracting and it took a lot of the pain away.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
On my hands and knees. I wanted a water birth but we couldn't get the water hot enough on time.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was unbelievable. I just kept saying, I can't believe I did it! He's so beautiful.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Don't give up. I know what its like to go natural, to have an epidural and to have a c-section. The pain that you feel for a moment in time is worth not having that drug or needle. It takes a long time to recover from it even when you don't think you still are. There are a lot of things you can do to over come the pain. It really comes down to mind over matter. Do a lot of meditation and write down words or phrases that will encourage you and bring peace. You can do it!!
