-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized it was real labor 5 hours after contractions started when I passed the bloody show. Before that I thought the pain was stomach cramps from something I ate.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Transition was the hardest part for me. Labor progressed faster than we believed it would skip my doula wasn't at my house when I got to the really painful stage. I wasn't doing well coping on my own, and while my husband was great support, he seemed to have forgotten all the tips and tricks for dealing with the pain we learned in birthing class.
-
IMG_04701
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Taking a birth class. It helped prepare me for what to expect and what to do when in active labor. I has the confidence to labor at home as long as possible because I knew the stages my body was going through.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
How quick the labor and pushing stage was for a first time mom. The whole thing was about 19 hours.
-
You can do it, trust your body. When you feel like you want to die, you're almost done, just keep pushing through the pain. Do things that make it hurt worse, that's what's going to make you progress.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Heating pad on my back helped me a lot, and counter pressure during transition. A hot shower was also really nice and sped things along quite a bit. I was looking forward to the birthing tub, but she came too quickly.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
They raised the head of the bed and I leaned on it while on my knees. After pushing for about 20 minutes my midwife had me prop my left leg up because baby's head was turned slightly. I couldn't have possibly laid down on my back.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Unreal. The whole pregnancy felt like a dream. There surely wouldn't actually be a baby at the end of this, would there? But there was, and she was mine and she was beautiful and perfect.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it, trust your body. When you feel like you want to die, you're almost done, just keep pushing through the pain. Do things that make it hurt worse, that's what's going to make you progress. I found laying down somewhat comfortable even in the late stages so my doula made me sit on the birthing ball and toilet, which was excruciating, but it really got things moving. Taking a birth class so you know *somewhat* what to expect was also really helpful for me.
