Breathing Techniques And Essential Oils Helped Catherine During Her Second Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I woke up with what felt like strong cramps that were coming and going. Called my midwife and she said "c'mon catherine this isn't your first rodeo you're in labor! Ill be over in about an hour" I laughed and thought yup this is it.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Of course coping with the pain and trusting the whole process and not being available to care for my other 2 children during labor.

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

This was my 3rd birth, my second natural home birth. So for me was just refreshing on all the things I learned and all the techniques that worked. Just refreshing all that information and truly relying on God's strength.

What surprised you about your birth?

You have to let go and every baby has its journey. They're the shot callers.

You can do it. Not for one second doubt your feminine strength and the gift of birthing children. We (women who birth naturally) we aren't super heroes, we aren't stronger then you..we are just like you and have the same strength and ability as you do.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Breathing techniques, I had a lavender satchel in my hand through my whole labor..I would smell it and it would help me stay calm. Peppermint oil on my wrists for energy. Exercise ball. Rocking on our rocking chair. Baseball massages to my lower back. And my husband as my doula. Also my 30 something affirmations that were all over my walls. Most of them were scripture.

What position did you end up delivering in?

In the water pool sitting I believe.

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

Magical. We didn't know her sex. But soon we realized she wasn't breathing so midwife started suctioning and giving her breaths and after exactly 2 min she opened her eyes and gave us a nice cry and pooped in my hands. My husband is still shocked how calm and composed I stayed during those 2 minutes, and he asked me why. I really don't know all I know if God's peace was with me and I knew he had it in his hands and that our baby girl was just fine.

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

You can do it. Not for one second doubt your feminine strength and the gift of birthing children. We (women who birth naturally) we aren't super heroes, we aren't stronger then you..we are just like you and have the same strength and ability as you do. Educate yourself, prepare. You cant go in thinking it will all work out without any effort on your part. Tons of info out there and there's something special about trusting your body and the process.