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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I felt my first contractions right after my husband left for work on a Tuesday morning, around 5:30 am. I didn't think much of them until about 7, when I got up and into the shower. I had an appointment with my midwife at 9, and was already dilated to a 4 by the time I got there.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The intensity of the contractions. They really weren't too bad until around noon. Considering my daughter was born at 2 p.m. that's not too bad. Trying to keep my composure for my 5 year old was challenging. I didn't want to frighten him! Overall I wouldn't have had it any other way.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I taught myself and my body how to breathe and relax. Much easier said than done in the throes of things, but without that I would have had a much tougher time. It helped to have an incredible midwife as well. She had so much faith and confidence in me, and really reassured me that I had the power to do this.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast every thing happened! I was in active labor for only an hour and 19 minutes, and only pushed for 9 minutes. It was incredible. I still can't believe I did it!
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Commit to it! Don't say "I'll try, and see how it goes", make the decision to do it and stick to it! Do your research and prepare yourself. It's the most incredible, magical thing I have ever experienced, and worth every ounce of effort.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing and moving. I stayed on all fours and rocked the whole time other than in the car and the birthing tub.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In the birthing tub, sitting up. I guess it's called "resting J" position.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Euphoric! What a relief! All my hard work finally paid off :)
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Commit to it! Don't say "I'll try, and see how it goes", make the decision to do it and stick to it! Do your research and prepare yourself. It's the most incredible, magical thing I have ever experienced, and worth every ounce of effort.
