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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was in denial for some time. As a first time mom I didn't know what to expect and honestly expected far worse. I was sure it was a false alarm until my doula came to check in and said this was IT.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Really and truly believing in my heart of hearts that I could do this. I only know one person who's had a natural delivery and I come from a line of C-section babies. I didn't have much evidence to prove our bodies were made to do this.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Reading and rereading ina may's guide to childbirth. Watching the business of being born with my husband turned him into an educated advocate for my choices. Lots research made sure I had the best team to support me in the day.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I did it! Without tearing! Without bein induced! Without an epidural. These were my biggest fears and where I was sure my body would "fail".
It was a long labour but that allowed me to manage and adjust with each progression.
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Once you know what kind of birth you want, educate yourself on the best way to achieve it statistically (to do and to avoid).
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Hot water bottle and icey wash cloth on my forehead.
Labouring on my side. Having my husband with me.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Strangely, on my back, with my pelvis elevated I "pushed him to the ceiling". I had tried the birthing stool but this was more effective.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I cannot describe the euphoria, and the high that followed. I felt like I could do anything.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Once you know what kind of birth you want, educate yourself on the best way to achieve it statistically (to do and to avoid) - be able to sniff out scaremongering and bullshit. Most importantly, assemble a team that shares your philosophy, has a track record that backs it up and that you trust wholeheartedly... our planned hospital birth became an unplanned, non-emergency home birth because our midwife and doula put us at complete ease.