Staying As Active As Possible Helped Tiffany During Her Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I woke up around 5AM with mild but inconsistent cramping. It felt completely differ t than the contractions with my older daughter, but I knew we would be having a baby that day.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

My water broke on the way to the birth center and I immediately felt the need to push. It was so difficult to not push like my body was telling me to, but if I did I would have delivered on the side of the highway and then be transported to the hospital!

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

I felt confident that I could have another natural birth after my first experience with my daughter, so I wanted to do things similar to during. T pregnancy with her. I stayed as active as possible, working out and chasing my two year old and students as much as possible. I had received a Fitbit for Christmas and was surprised that I was still walking about 10,000 steps daily. I also ate fairly well (but treated myself too) and am convinced that both contributed to easy pregnancies and deliveries.

What surprised you about your birth?

How fast it happened! I went from playing with my daughter to distract me from mild contractions, to back to back contractions, delivery in about 2.5 hours!

Move while you are labor! If you are not comfortable or having difficulty getting through an contraction, try a new position. Also stay hydrated throughout labor!!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I was able to close my eyes, breathe, and count my way through moderate contractions. While pushing, I grabbed my husband's hands and squeezed hard, while trying to focus on baby's movement out!

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered on my hands and knees after squatting for several pushes.

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

Amazing! There are no words to explain how I felt looking at this little girl and my husband and thinking about how we brought her and her sister into the world.

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

Move while you are labor! If you are not comfortable or having difficulty getting through an contraction, try a new position. Also stay hydrated throughout labor!!