Hiring A Doula Helped Lynn During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was 37 and 3 days on Tuesday, the 23rd. I had a routine prenatal at 4pm and my blood pressure was really high (again from the previous week’s check up) but this time even worse. The doc said she wanted me to go back to L&D again to be monitored and blood drawn and if the BP didn’t go back down they would recommend inducing me. Not a part of our birth plan at all but after it didn’t go down (and only went up from stress prob), my husband and I thought long about it, talked to 3 diff docs and our doula Jessica Greene and decided we would go with their recommendation. Couldn’t live with ourselves in case something would have happened to him in the next couple weeks.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

While we really wanted to go all natural, the stars didn't align this way. The challenging bit was having to come to terms with the interventions.

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

Hiring a doula, for sure! She helped us prepare and cope with the induction better than anyone else. I can't imagine our pregnancy and birth without her! I went to mama groups and we made birth affirmations together and supported each other as well. My husband and I also took classes on baby basics, childbirth and breastfeeding. I read books, apps and watched videos as well! Educate yourself! It's the best thing you can do to prepare.

What surprised you about your birth?

How quickly labor progressed! Also, how amazing the hospital staff was- we felt most comfortable at a hospital for our first birth experience but were still wary about the staff and how hospitals have this reputation in the "crunchy mom" world for being pushy, not listening to your wishes and having a more "business" feel. My husband and I were both pleasantly shocked as this couldn't have been farther from the truth! The staff asked as soon as we got there if we had a birth plan and told us most of the things on it were procedures they already did (or didn't do)!

Surround yourselves with love and supportive people. Read, watch and attend EVERYTHING you have available! Even if something seems silly or like "That's common sense stuff"... you will pick up a couple tips and meet other mamas! Talking with other soon to be mamas and experienced mamas alike.. it's just the best community in the WORLD!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

My husband, mother and doula all helped me with breathing techniques, mental affirmations and lower back pressure. I bounced on the birth ball for a while and just tried to keep my hips moving wherever I was lying/standing/sitting... etc.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was lying on my side and back, but while on my back I was sitting up as much as I could. I pushed 3 times per contraction for 5 contractions and there he was. Baby came out crying and was placed right in my arms, on my chest. My husband cut the cord after it stopped pulsing and turned white. They cleaned and stitched me all up (I had a 2 degree tear) and then we tried breast feeding and had an instant latch that has lasted (it seems like) until the present.

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

Euphoria. The ultimate bliss! Like a beautiful drug (oxytocin) trip! Looking into his eyes and hearing his voice (esp hearing his voice) just melted me into the bed.

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

Surround yourselves with love and supportive people. Read, watch and attend EVERYTHING you have available! Even if something seems silly or like "That's common sense stuff"... you will pick up a couple tips and meet other mamas! Talking with other soon to be mamas and experienced mamas alike.. it's just the best community in the WORLD! I love being a mom now and I also love being a part of so many beautiful groups of supportive, encouraging women. If you have ANY questions, even one you think is too silly to ask, do it! You and other new mamas will benefit from it. We need to raise each other up!