Keeping a Consistent Yoga Practice During Pregnancy Helped Jessica During Her Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I realized I was really in labor after I had contractions all night long, and I could no longer bare to sit or lay; I thought to myself, ok I'm calling the midwife, this is it.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging thing about going natural was advocating for myself, that a home birth that was natural was the best way for me to have a baby. I knew this was true, but not everyone around me agreed.

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

The most helpful thing I did to prepare for labor was keeping a consistent yoga practice during pregnancy. The breathe work was the only thing that got me through contractions without screaming for an epidural.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised by how painless pushing was, compared to my labor contractions. My daughter was "sunny side up" and it took many different painful positions to get her turned. The turning process made pushing comparatively quick and easy.

For all of those other moms that want to go natural, stick to your beliefs and intuition, you'll be fine, and when labor comes around stay focused. This is your time to shine and find your true strength. Once you find it, it's yours.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The best pain relief was a birthing tub, and also counter pressure points performed by my midwife and husband. When back labor really turned into high gear I couldn't sit or really move. The tub allowed me to sit comfortably to rest, and the counter pressure points took the edge off of what felt like out of control contractions.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered baby in a seated open lotus in the birthing tub, with hubby behind me, feet on the edges, and hands in the straps.

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

I felt nervous to hold my baby for the first time, even after pulling her out of my body onto my chest by myself, I knew she was perfect and did not want to hurt her.

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

For all of those other moms that want to go natural, stick to your beliefs and intuition, you'll be fine, and when labor comes around stay focused. This is your time to shine and find your true strength. Once you find it, it's yours.