Midwife's Back Massage Helped Charis During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I woke up that morning having a few contractions. They were very far apart and did not seem to be getting closer together or harder.I had an appointment with my midwife that afternoon and she told me I was definitely in labor. I was already dialated to a 6 and 100% effaced.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The last hour of labor before I began pushing. I definitely started having second thoughts but reminded myself I could do this!

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

Taking my natural supplements, protein shakes, and seeing a chiropractor.

What surprised you about your birth?

How great the staff at the hospital was with working with me going natural. My midwife was wonderful and even used essential oils to help ease labor pains.

O would recommend a doula. That was the one thing I wish I had done and realize how useful that it would have been.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Bouncing on a birthing ball helped, but what helped the most was when my midwife massaged Valor 2 on my back to help relax my muscles that had started to go into spasms. Once she did that o had 3 more contractions where I was ready to push and then she was born!

What position did you end up delivering in?

On my side

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

Such relief and joy

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

O would recommend a doula. That was the one thing I wish I had done and realize how useful that it would have been.