Having Her Doula And Her Birth Team Helped Sarah During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was induced due to gestational hypertension. We tried multiple forms of inductions including cytotec and foley bulb. Both seemed to start labor but the contractions never lasted. We eventually started pitocin and that’s when active labor began.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I had chosen to not use any pain medication even though I had to be induced. It was brutal. I managed to make it to 10cm and started pushing all without pain medication. My labor lasted over 45 hours due to a cervical lip and baby being asynclitic. (He had his cord and two arms around his neck!) He just wouldn’t come out! I ended up having to get a epidural in order to stall my labor to reposition baby. This decision (and the dedication of my midwives and doula) saved me from an emergency c-section.

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

I hired a Doula and switched from a large OB practice to a smaller certified nurse midwife practice! I truly believe it was my birth team that saved me from having a c-section!

What surprised you about your birth?

First of all, I never expected to have the complications that arose. I was surprised by the strength I had to get through what was the most painful experience I have ever endured. Pitocin is no joke! Second, I was genuinely surprised that pushing (even with a epidural) really is work- I guess that’s why it’s called labor!

You can do it! Plan for it! Prepare your body! Do your exercises and eat healthy- but be prepared for your birth plan to change. Have a back up plan. Surround yourself with a supportive birth team! Know the risks involved with each induction and above all pray!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Hypnobirthing, counter-pressure, and a warm bath worked the best.

What position did you end up delivering in?

After trying ever positioning the book, I needed up delivering on my back simply because I had better control over pushing. I was even able to try on my hands and knees even with a epidural thanks to my midwives’ support!

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

I honestly was a little scared and very overwhelmed. Pushing took so long that I thought he would never come! Once he was in my arms the world melted away and it was just him and me!

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

You can do it! Plan for it! Prepare your body! Do your exercises and eat healthy- but be prepared for your birth plan to change. Have a back up plan. Surround yourself with a supportive birth team! Know the risks involved with each induction and above all pray!