Educated Herself On The Phases Of Labor Helped Katie Achieve Home Water Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

When I had an overwhelming desire to pace the floor and did not want to sit through the contractions.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

My labor was really long and I often thought about going to the hospital for medication but luckily I had a great birth team that supported me. Had I been in a hospital, I would have opted for medications but being at home, I did not have that option and I'm happy that I didn't.

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

I really educated my myself on the phases of labor and what to expect so when things came up, I didn't get scared, I knew what was 'normal' and what I could expect so I could feel empowered.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was really surprised at how painful it was. Nothing prepared me for that and once I thought I was through the worst, it seemed that the next part was even more challenging.

It was such a relief and he was so perfect.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The birth pool saved me. I spent the most time in there and made the most progress when I was left on my own in the pool and could focus on myself and moving the baby down.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was in the birth pool but on my back with my husband behind me holding me up.

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

It was such a relief and he was so perfect.

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

I would not have had a natural home birth if not for my amazing OB. Circumstances arose that would have been an c-section had I been in a hospital but he handled everything and I had complete faith in him. So my advice is to choose your team wisely. I had a doula and a midwife as well that were both amazing and a great support to me. My husband and I also had multiple discussions on what I wanted and how he could help support me in my moments of weakness which I am thankful for. He talked me through many periods where I didn't know if I could do it.