Focusing On Her Breathing And Praying Helped Nikki During Her Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

When I was having contractions at home.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The anticipation was the worst part. I gave up coffee about two weeks before I was full term to help me stay calm and reduce anxious feelings. After having an unmediated posterior birth with my first child I was really hoping my son would be facing the right way for an easier birth. Keeping my mind calm and confident was the most challenging part.

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

With my first natural childbirth my husband and I took a Bradley Childbirth class. It was very informative and gave us lots of confidence. I also liked mama naturals birth affirmation cards posted all over my home.

What surprised you about your birth?

This was our second child and the delivery was so much easier and quicker! We didn't even make it to the hospital, he was born in the front doorway of our new house!

It was amazing! I was elated to know he was out! So excited that a long daunting birth was not in our future. It was such a RELIEF!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I focused on breathing through my contractions with my eyes closed. Also praying throughout labor helped me stay calm.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was standing up but bent over leaning against our door.

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

It was amazing! I was elated to know he was out! So excited that a long daunting birth was not in our future. It was such a RELIEF!

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

Get educated! Knowledge is so empowering. If you only know what movies and media tells you about birth it will be very intimidating. Go to a natural childbirth class with your husband and find support!