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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was in denial for the longest time! My last labor took 37.5 hours (induced with a foley balloon) so even though my contractions were only 3-4 minutes apart and took major concentration, I refused to believe it was actually labor until my midwife came to my house and told me to stop timing my contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
There was a point at which I really didn't think I could do it. The pain does get intense. I was crying and saying "I just want this to be over!" But it was over less than an hour after that! So it's really true, when you think you can't make it anymore, you're almost done.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
We took Bradley method classes for our first baby, and that was a huge help. Not only did we learn relaxation techniques and positions, but my husband felt super prepared. He was my biggest support and advocate. I couldn't have done it without his help, he was amazing. Being educated gave him the confidence to support me.
The other thing was having a care provider who I really trusted and who supported me 100%. With my first baby, I had some issues with my provider and was unhappy with the overall experience. This time, I chose a midwife who was extremely experienced, confident, and gave me the support I needed throughout my pregnancy to believe that I really could have a home birth this time around.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it was! My first birth took 37.5 hours in the hospital. I was induced with a foley balloon and had to be manually dilated from 7 to 10 cm because my body was not doing it. This time, start to finish was 8 hours. It was so amazing. Yes, it hurts, but it's over so quick and by the next day you already forget the pain. I have no regrets!
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I don't think I could have done it without my husband, and am eternally grateful to him for his love and support throughout the whole process.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
My husband applied pressure to my low back, and that was amazing. I also was able to labor and give birth in the birth pool, and that was so relaxing and amazing as well.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was in the birth pool leaning back on my husband. I had to be in that position because my baby had his hand up around his face and gave me some trouble when I was on my knees, but it all ended up working out.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Relief, pride, and love. Relief that the pain is over and that everything went well, pride in myself and my body, and of course love for this little person who I can't wait to get to know.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Be prepared. Educate yourself. Read other people's experiences and trust your body, because we were literally created to do this. Find a care provider that you trust and supports your plan. And make sure that your partner is educated and supportive, as well. I don't think I could have done it without my husband, and am eternally grateful to him for his love and support throughout the whole process. Our bodies are amazing and wonderful, knowing that this is a natural process and that you CAN do it will give you the confidence you need to make it through.
