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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was in labor when I felt the need to poop but was unable to. At first I was in denial, but once the pain became unbearable I knew it had to be the time. The wise words of my midwife Brenda stuck in my head, "When you feel like you can't go on anymore, that is when it is time."
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging part was the RING OF FIRE. I didn't last long but it felt like forever! The contractions for the last 20 minutes of my labor were a close second. I am a big baby when it comes to pain, so I was surprised I was able to withstand the pain and not rush to the hospital.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I saw LOTS of videos of home births and made an inspirational journal filled with bible verses and positive sayings. I thought about what I wrote and remembered that I was made to do this. My husbands support was also very needed throughout my pregnancy. I also made sure to stay as active as I could without over doing it.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The most surprising thing about my birth was that one of my fears became a reality when my water broke and I felt the most intense pain of my life but my midwife was not there! I was so worried that my midwife wouldn't make it in time throughout the end of my pregnancy ( I was 35 weeks when I made the switch to go to a midwife). To my surprise, that is exactly what happened. Luckily my wonderful friend and photographer Heather made it just in time and helped keep my husband and myself calm. I also surprised myself by actually deliver my baby all natural, it was so empowering.
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Do not listen to anyone who says you can not do it. You CAN do it! You were made for this.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The best relief of pain was sitting on the toilet and warm showers/baths. I sat on the toilet for almost 30 minutes. When my water broke is when I went to the bed. I followed my body and worked with it.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering on all fours. It was so comfortable and I pushed for only four minute, after he crowned, before he was out.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I felt so proud when I held my baby after. When my husband handed him to me I felt this overwhelming feeling and I just cried. I was amazed that I, one of the biggest babies in my family when it comes to pain, was able to do it. I had lots of people telling me I wouldn't be able to do it or just go to the hospital and get an epidural, But It felt great to prove them wrong.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Best advice I can give is do not listen to anyone who says you can not do it. You CAN do it! You were made for this. Also work with your body, do what comes naturally. Breath and try not to yell. When the time comes, surround yourself with the ones who TRULY support what you are doing. If someone is doubtful or try to convince you of doing it any other way then your own, it's best not to have them there.
