-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up in the middle of the night to pee but felt some liquid come along with the pee. I tried to go back to sleep but had more water trickle down my legs, i also had some mucus plug. After that I started having mild period pains that gradually increased in intensity.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The contractions were very very intense & pushing was hard work but the labor was very short.
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I didn't do anything special but tried to do stretching exercises & I prepared my mind a lot through a book called supernatural childbirth. I prepared my mind through prayer & spiritual declarations.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised by how short the labor was & how intense the contractions became in the end.
-
Do your research, in terms of talking to midwives or doctors who are pro natural who can explain what natural birth is all about.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing deeply, having my partner hold my hand, sit behind me & encourage me. I didn't have time to do water birth I had planned for.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
I was half sitting on the bed.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was exhilarating. Felt relief to finally get to meet her.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Birthing centers are better than traditional hospitals in supporting natural births in my opinion. Also have a midwife who will be there for you throughout. Do your research, in terms of talking to midwives or doctors who are pro natural who can explain what natural birth is all about. There is a lot of fear & misinformation regarding natural birth. Decide on what pain relief methods you want to use. Walking as an exercise is good for you but I couldn't manage as much as I was always so exhausted.