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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Monday Feb. 27th around 2pm
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
There was no going back. In choosing a birth center I didn't have the option to change my mind in the midst of labor.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
My partner and I read a lot and educated ourselves. We felt that understanding the birthing process would help to eliminate fear. Although fear has a way of creeping in at times we were more prepared to battle it head on with logic. Fear is the biggest obstacle.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The water really helped to relax me between surges. I could visualize riding a wave. I was so in the zone and focused, its like you are so inside your own body more than ever before. I compare it to travelling through a deep dark cave. The only way out is through and I just kept thinking this.
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You can do this, women have been doing this through the ages. We are strong and capable. This is your experience to make it as joyful as you want. Let that baby decide when they are ready to join this world and it will be a smoother transition for them. Never doubt yourself as you are divine. Never doubt your baby as they are your divine creation. Pain is temporary. Fear has no place here, only LOVE.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Soaking in the water and holding my partner's hand were the best ways I worked through the pain. Going inward was the best tactic I found.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Face up in the bath tub with my feet pushed against the tub wall is the position we delivered in.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I touched the baby's head when she was emerging, it felt squishy. After she was birthed the midwife placed her on my chest and I was shaking. She felt like BLISS, the only way to describe it. Every happy wonderful emotion and feeling all at once. Unforgettable. Hearing her cry was like blessed music. Ah, finally! So much relief.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Same advice I had to remind myself of along the way. You can do this, women have been doing this through the ages. We are strong and capable. This is your experience to make it as joyful as you want. Let that baby decide when they are ready to join this world and it will be a smoother transition for them. Never doubt yourself as you are divine. Never doubt your baby as they are your divine creation. Pain is temporary. Fear has no place here, only LOVE.
