-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was 40 weeks 6 days pregnant when my doctors were pushing for an induction because of a previous loss at 24 weeks gestation, because of my age (a young 35), and an imperfect NST result of abnormal heartbeat accelerations. I really did not want to be induced so I asked for a membrane sweep. After the sweep, I saw my chiropractor who worked his magic to help start labor as well. When I got home an hour later, labor pains began immediately. I wasn't sure it was real labor until I started timing them! Even then I couldn't believe it but they were coming so fast and lasting at least a minute I knew it was true labor. I had been feeling cramping on and off for a few weeks before this, so I wanted to be sure it was real labor.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Trying to relax through the pain. I found myself tensing up a lot!
-
VanessaLacey
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Taking the Mama Natural Birth course and sticking to my natural plan. I also had all my bags ready to go so I felt prepared to go to the hospital.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
The pushing technique surprised me. I thought it should be more from my abdomen but it wasn't. Also, the afterpains I had when nursing. I actually think they were more painful than labor.
-
It was a surreal feeling knowing I had carried her for 9 months and just pushed her out naturally while sticking to my plan! The doctor had to tell me to open my eyes, I had them closed the whole time I was pushing!
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing, breathing, breathing (slowly, not Lamaze style) Also, the shower was a phenomenal tool. I wish I could have stayed in there longer but I knew I'd be having the baby at home if we didn't leave for the hospital right away.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back (as per the doctor's suggestion). She was coming so fast I just went with the flow. I was trying on my left side when the doctor suggested I move.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was a surreal feeling knowing I had carried her for 9 months and just pushed her out naturally while sticking to my plan! The doctor had to tell me to open my eyes, I had them closed the whole time I was pushing!
-
How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?
The class was truly invaluable. It prepared me to understand all the stages of labor and what could possibly happen to my body. I knew as things were progressing that I was in transition and just talked myself through it. I knew what was happening to my body as I was going through it and was not afraid since I was prepared for it. It also gave me the confidence to voice what I wanted and needed in the hospital.
