-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had 2 full nights of prodromal labor and thought the third night was going to end up being the same after I was very slow to progress. Finally the surges began to come 1-2 minutes apart and I began to leak, so I woke up my doula and she said it was time to go to the birthing center.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not only did I have over 40 hours of prodromal labor but I also had horrible pain in my back throughout every minute of my labor. By the end I was utterly exhausted both physically and emotionally. I tried my best to utilize the hypnobirthing techniques I had been practicing, but it definitely wasn't easy!
-
IMG_3451
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I took hypnobirthing classes and worked daily in relaxation breathing. I thought I completely through all my practice out the window during birth, but my mom and sister, who were both present, told me I was definitely focused and "in a zone."
-
What surprised you about your birth?
I knew I would love my baby at first sight, but my goodness! The feeling is so overwhelming I couldn't possibly have prepared for it. I get like my heart might burst!
-
You are stronger than you think. I am so proud of myself for having the birth I dreamed of.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
I tried to breathe down to the areas where I felt pain and my husband dug his fists into the pain in my back throughout my labor.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
I was hands and knees in the birthing tub.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Indescribable
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You are stronger than you think. I am so proud of myself for having the birth I dreamed of.
