Taking a Yoga Birth Class Helped Carrie During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had been having regular Braxton Hicks contractions all day that subsided in early evening. I suddenly got exhausted so I laid down to rest. I woke up two hours later with contractions lower in my abdomen and not long later a bloody show.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I didn't find it challenging at all (first or second births), but I did get frustrated when I stalled for four hours after arriving at the hospital at 6 cm. I also pushed for about an hour with a full bag of water and couldn't really feel it out. I was tired after being up all night, so I asked my midwife to break my water. After that, pushing felt right and Baby was born minutes later.

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

I took a yoga birth class that focused on trusting my body and my baby in the birthing process. I also had complete confidence in my midwife practice to intervene as little as possible, so I never felt like I had to ask questions or advocate for myself during the process. My focus was fully on my body and my baby.

What surprised you about your birth?

This was my second birth, so I expected labor to be shorter and easier, especially since my first child was born compound (head and hand at the same time). Although getting to 6 cm took about half the time as the first, I stalled for 4 hours at the hospital causing a longer labor. I also struggled with pushing, I guess because my water didn't break.

Trust your body and yourself. Work with a midwife/ob who does the same.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I spent time in the labor tub and had a water birth. My nurse massaged my ribs where I had pain all through my pregnancy.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Hands and knees leaning over tub wall.

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

Blissful.

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

Trust your body and yourself. Work with a midwife/ob who does the same.