Taking Bradley Class And Watching Birth Videos Helped Nicole Achieve Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

Around 2 am I will up to contractions that were stronger than the Braxton Hicks I was used to. I decided to time them and noticed they were consistently coming around 10 minutes apart and I was unable to fall back asleep.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The intense pain. I knew this was how I wanted to give birth and was totally mentally prepared for it, but there is no way to really prepare for the physical pain that comes. At one point I want sure I could do it anymore, and thankfully my husband was there to remind me that I totally could!

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

Took Bradley class and watched endless amounts birth videos. It helped me to know that so many women that came before me could do it and that meant so could I. I researched the benefits of natural birth and that made it an easy choice for me.

What surprised you about your birth?

How quickly I dilated. Went from 1 cm to 8 cm in 2 hours while laboring at home. That also gave me the boost to continue without any meds, I was so close to meeting my son. I was also surprised at how quickly the pain I went through was somewhat forgotten after my baby was in my arms!

Euphoric! There was a sense of relief that it was over and intense happiness that this child that I grew inside me for 9 months was finally in my arms and he was mine! I also felt a great sense of accomplishment!!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Hip squeezes were great and the ability to move freely when I felt I needed to. I also used the bathtub during my labor and the water stimulation helped. I had to concentrate on my breathing, long deep breaths, were really helpful. My doula also used hot stones which felt great with the back labor.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered on my back, but labored on my side, on the toilet, squatting, and standing.

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

Euphoric! There was a sense of relief that it was over and intense happiness that this child that I grew inside me for 9 months was finally in my arms and he was mine! I also felt a great sense of accomplishment!!

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

Do your research, mentally prepare, have a supportive team that can help you through it, and know that you are stronger than you think!