Being Up And Moving Is The Only Thing Samantha Can Do Which Helped Her Achieve Birth Center Water Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had received an acupuncture treatment to try to naturally induce labor at 40 weeks 5 days which brought on consistent contractions. Over the next 48 hours, we made two trips to the birth center but ended up being sent home each time because labor had slowed. On the third day, the contractions were much more intense and finally seemed to be sticking around for good!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Being so ready to give birth and having labor stall. Striping membranes were the only option to try to get things moving for me and it didn’t help right away. I was exhausted and frustrated to have to wait so long. Also, staying positive and believing I could do it! Near the end, I started to hyperventilate thinking that I couldn’t handle the pain much longer.

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

Choosing a birth center rather than an OBGYN or midwife at a hospital. The entirety of my pregnancy care was based on natural practices and I wasn’t ever offered anything that didn’t follow that mindset. I also attended a "Centering" group for my prenatal appointments where women at similar stages of pregnancy had a class-each month to get ready for birth and baby.

What surprised you about your birth?

How long early labor lasted! My labors with my other children never stalled so this was new to me.

Your body was made to do this! Find like-minded caretakers that you’re comfortable with. Believe you can do it and surround yourself with people who believe you can too!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Honestly, nothing really helped the pain for me. The only thing I could do was be up and moving to make sure I wasn’t tensing any muscles. I swayed in a standing or squatting position and when I was in the car or in the birthing tub I swayed my arms in rhythm with my breathing.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up delivering on my back in the birthing tub.

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

Relieving and so exciting!

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

Your body was made to do this! Find like-minded caretakers that you’re comfortable with. Believe you can do it and surround yourself with people who believe you can too!