Watching a Lot of Birth Experiences and Stories in YouTube Helped Lindsay During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had to be induced due to medical reasons. We found out when I was 12 weeks pregnant that I have precancerous cells on my cervix. We made the decision to treat those cells after I had given birth to my daughter. My doctor felt it was in my best interest to induce two weeks early so we could treat as soon as possible.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I pushed for 2 and a half hours and ended up needed a c-section because my birthing canal wasn't high enough and her head was beginning to cone. The most challenging part was giving up my ideal birth and doing what was best for my daughter and myself.

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

Watching a lot of birth experiences and stories in YouTube and know that not all births are the same. I went in knowing that I may not be able to have my ideal birth but the outcome would be wonderful regardless, because I would get to meet my daughter.

What surprised you about your birth?

Having a cesarean wasn't as terrible as I thought I was going to be. Sure I couldn't get up for the first 24 hours but I was still able to hold her and nurse. I was surprised by how much my husband step up and took amazing care of both of us.

Have a realistic plan, know that there is nothing wrong with asking for pain meds or having to have a caesarean. It's great to go natural and if your able that's wonderful but the goal of your Kanpur is to give birth to a healthy happy baby and if you have to do that By other means don't feel bad or cheated about it.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

While I was in labor I really just tried to focus each contraction and breathing through them.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up having to have a caesarean.

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

UNREAL, is the only way to describe it. I had imaged her little face for so long and to see her in right in front of me looking just like my dreams (she looked just like her daddy!!) was just the best thing in the world.

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

Have a realistic plan, know that there is nothing wrong with asking for pain meds or having to have a caesarean. It's great to go natural and if your able that's wonderful but the goal of your Kanpur is to give birth to a healthy happy baby and if you have to do that By other means don't feel bad or cheated about it.