Taking a Prenatal Class and Watching a Lot of Videos of Ladies Going All Natural Helped Victoria During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I started having contractions at home and decided that I should head to the hospital. I didn't think I was really in labor, I expected them to send me home. The contractions got a lot stronger on the way to the hospital. When they checked me I was 8 centimeters. He was born less than an hour after we arrived there.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I planned to go natural throughout my whole pregnancy. Even if I would have wanted an a epidural I wouldn't have been able to get one because I was too far along by the time I got to the hospital. I didn't have time to think about it being challenging, it happened so fast. It was very painful though.

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

I took a prenatal class and I enjoyed it a lot. I also watched a lot of videos of ladies going all natural on youtube and it was inspirational.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised that I went into labor on my own at 39+6 weeks, and that it was so quick! The recovery has wonderful, I felt normal again right after except a little soreness.

Do it because it's worth it in the end because you don't have to deal with the after pains of having an epidural. Also it is a wonderful experience.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I didn't really get a chance to try anything. I had planned to get in the tub / shower

What position did you end up delivering in?

On my back in bed

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

It felt wonderful although I was concerned and only got to hold him four maybe five minutes at first because he was having trouble breathing. The umbilical cord had got tangled around his neck during delivery so he had to go to the nursery to be monitored for a little while.

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

I would tell them to do it because it's worth it in the end because you don't have to deal with the after pains of having an epidural. Also it is a wonderful experience.