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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was actually in labor when I threw up the little I'd eaten that morning. I thought, "Okay, this is happening."
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Having delivered my firstborn by an unplanned c-section, I think I really embraced every part of the natural process of birth. In labor, I was thinking, "Yes! This is what I want. Just come on out, baby." So, the biggest challenge was being able to obtain and experience the natural birth itself. It was amazing.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I would say the most helpful things I did to prepare for this birth were acknowledging whatever fears or concerns that presented themselves and letting them go, nourishing myself and child with a real food diet, and consuming red raspberry leaf tea.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised by the time of day that I delivered my baby. My two other sons were born around one a.m. - we met this little guy about 10:20 in the morning. Which was perfect.
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Nourish your body, mind, and soul. Practice relaxing regularly. Educate yourself through positive resources so that you eliminate the fears and can embrace and enjoy the experience. Be confident - you got this!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Being on my hands and knees and chewing my "labor ice." Red raspberry leaf tea ice chips that I had prepared ahead of time took my mind away from the intensity of the moment.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my knees with my arms resting on a little step stool.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Love-at-first-sight amazing! You spend months wondering who this little person inside you is and then when you get to meet them your heart explodes!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Nourish your body, mind, and soul. Practice relaxing regularly. Educate yourself through positive resources so that you eliminate the fears and can embrace and enjoy the experience. Be confident - you got this!
