Going to a Prenatal Yoga Studio Helped Meghan During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was having contractions for a week but didn't realize that's what they really were. But the moment the contractions kicked in I knew I was in a different stage. Early contractions are manageable, it's when you have trouble talking or standing that you know you're in labor.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Getting through the final rounds of contractions before starting to push. Once you get to the part of feeling the need to push your body relaxes from the intense contractions so it's actually a sense of relief.

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

Going to a prenatal yoga studio. The yoga part is of course helpful, and almost necessary, but having the support system outlet to talk and hear about others experiences was very helpful. The instructor was a doula who was so informative; it was really a perk to going to the class.

What surprised you about your birth?

How amazing your body is. One moment it's just you and the next moment you have a little human. It's still so surreal to think that I produced and delivered my son!

I would actually going in to without a "birth plan." Instead I would go in with the mindset of "if I can go natural I will, but my main focus is to deliver a safe and healthy baby while keeping myself safe." That way you aren't stressed about controlling anything and you can "go with the flow."

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I took the narcotic in the beginning to help my body relax and get in to the zone that I was going to deliver a baby.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Sitting in the bed.

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

Amazing and warm. It was such a relief to have him in my arms and have the doctor tell me he was safe.

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

I would actually going in to without a "birth plan." Instead I would go in with the mindset of "if I can go natural I will, but my main focus is to deliver a safe and healthy baby while keeping myself safe." That way you aren't stressed about controlling anything and you can "go with the flow."