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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized i was really in labor after my mom, and best-friend convinced me to go to the hospital-- as my contractions were 4 min apart. Only did it register that I was gonna have my baby that night after the nurse checked me and said I was mediated to a 4 or 5 and that I'd he moved to the labor and delivery suite.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I think the most challenging thing, was the fear of the unknown. I was anxious about my baby being posterior, and the possibility of having back labor; I worried about a hospital environment not supporting the natural birth experience I dreamed of. I really wanted a natural birth, but didn't believe in myself. When the anesthesiologist came in, she practically was pressuring me to get the epidural, or at least get the needle put in in case I wanted it later and she wasn't there. I felt so discouraged and conflicted. Even my aunt was telling me that I would NEED it. Haha
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I drank red raspberry leaf tea, and tried to take walks when I could. But, the best thing that I think anyone can do if they want a natural birth is at least do some research on it, and read positive birth stories. I really liked Ina May's Guide to Childbirth, it was so eye opening and empowering.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised at how truly intense it was once I started to transition. It was also cool how I could still feel my baby kicking around inside me while her head discended lower and lower with my contractions. Also, the feeling of my water breaking was so strange. I dialated to a seven, and while the nurse was checking me my membrane broke. I couldn't believe how much water came out. Also, the feeling of my baby's head, then body coming out is something I will never forget.
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Stay positive, and have only who you feel comfortable with around you while you have this experience.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Standing and rocking my hips and walking helped before I got to the hospital. Sitting was extremely uncomfortable. At the hospital, my dad and my best friend's mom helped coach me through my labor. My dad put counter pressure on my tailbone, while I focused on staying relaxed and loose. I also kept telling myself, I can do all things through Christ. In transition, having someone count slowly so I could focus on breathing really helped my not start to get excited or panicked. Also, screaming or making noise helped to get through the intensity of each contraction. I was sounded like I was singing screamo. ??
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering laying down on my back, I did want to try another position but my labor was so quick. Doc said it's time to push, and the next moment I felt my baby's head pop out of me, then the shoulders.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It felt so happy and in disbelief.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Stay positive, and have only who you feel comfortable with around you while you have this experience. Keeping the mood light and stress free is great.
