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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I started having mild contractions around 9:30 am on my due date. I was very skeptical of being in actual labor because I was a ftm and it was my due date! I realized I was actually in labor around 1 pm when the contractions got more intense even after a nap, eating, walking, and showering; and I became nauseous over and over again.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Overcoming the fear of what was coming next. My contractions peaked and were painful before they came back down. They were also fairly irregular in duration through the entire labor, even transition. Finding comfortable positions was difficult towards the end of active labor and transition.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Taking a pretty intense yet thorough natural childbirth class. I took the Bradley Method classes.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The difference in sensation contraction feelings for dilation vs pushing. They are very different feelings.
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Do your research ahead of time, watch natural birth videos, have your partner on board and prepared to make decisions, educate yourself on practices you would like/not like.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Low moans, different positions, abdominal breathing, and LOTS of concentration/positive affirmations.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Pushed on left side, then squat/kneeling, delivered in classic.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Surreal. I was very tired from pushing for two hours. I was so happy it was over, yet so in awe of our little boy. We didn't know the sex so that added to the moment! You completely forget who is in the room or talking- it's just you and your baby!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do your research ahead of time, watch natural birth videos, have your partner on board and prepared to make decisions, educate yourself on practices you would like/not like.
