Keeping Up With Her Exercises Helped Lala Achieve Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

My husband and I were in the middle of teaching a painting class, And halfway though I started to get contractions. The contractions were 5 minutes apart and lasting for a minute each time. We were able to finish the class and rushed home as we had planned a home birth.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

My previous 3 births were also natural so I knew what to expect with the pain but this was our first home birth experience and I was more worried about being rushed to the hospital in case of any complications, or whether or not the midwife would make it on time (she arrived as I was already in active labor having contractions every minute and getting the feeling of bearing down and pushing) the Baby arrived 17 minutes after the midwife arrived!

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

The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth would be keeping up with my exercises, I had a daily routine of doing squats, push ups and dips throughout my pregnancy which I felt made my labor faster & easier this time around. I also took Evening primrose oil a week before going into labor which I believe helped in preventing any tears.

What surprised you about your birth?

My water broke as I was pushing, first time that ever happened, I usually need to get my water broken by my OB.

Don’t be scared of going natural, giving birth is the most natural thing our bodies will go though. The pain is temporary, listen to your body and do what feels natural. Breath and stay calm, our bodies are capable of amazing things and this is one of them.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I was in a warm bath as I waited to for the midwife to arrive and that really helped me through the contractions. Originally I wanted to do a water birth but by the time the midwife came I just wanted to get out of the tub after being in there for 2 hours and the water was already cold.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up delivering as I lay on my back on my bed. I held my legs up as my midwife coached me and my husband assisted by pulling her out.

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

It felt surreal to finally hold her in my arms, it was amazing to have this little baby on my chest and meeting my baby girl for the first time, it was love at first sight.

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

Don’t be scared of going natural, giving birth is the most natural thing our bodies will go though. The pain is temporary, listen to your body and do what feels natural. Breath and stay calm, our bodies are capable of amazing things and this is one of them.