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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had shown signs of early labor a few days prior so I knew labor was imminent. I had lost my mucus plug 4 days prior to, started to "leak" 3 days prior, and then finally had consistent Braxton Hicks the day before delivery. Once the contractions started to become more regular, I knew it was go time!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going all natural was others' opinions. Being constantly bombarded with other people's judgements and comments was very difficult. I knew a natural birth was what I wanted for me and my baby. Some days it took serious mental work to not being discouraged by other people.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was preparing my mind for unexpected pain. Being able to tune into my body and trust it's natural workings was the number one thing that got me through the tough parts or labor. A daily yoga and meditation practice was key for me throughout my pregnancy to prepare for birth.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was most surprised how time was both fleeting and extensive at the same time. The idea of time didn't really exist for me; it was more about each moment. Some moments felt infinitely longer and others felt like time hardly passed. Yet looking back I was in active labor for about 16 hours, and pushed for 2 of those!
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You can totally do it!! Trust your body and your baby. Even when it seems discouraging, your body and baby know what they are doing. Don't give in to your mind in moments of doubt.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Walking was a great pain reliever for me up until the transition phase of labor. Once I could no longer walk through the contractions, pausing, and then continuing helped ease my mind and body. When I was in transition, the double hip squeeze was awesome!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I tried pushing to deliver on hands and knees, squatting , and using a squat bar. But I ultimately ended up delivering laying on my side.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding my baby felt completely surreal! I remember thinking that I couldn't believe she was a real baby, not just some gremlin who had lived in my belly for the past few months. Seeing her, holding her, was such a relief from the endured pain. And just as fast, being filled with complete love and peace.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can totally do it!! Trust your body and your baby. Even when it seems discouraging, your body and baby know what they are doing. Don't give in to your mind in moments of doubt.
