Taking The Mama Natural Birth Course Helped Ashley Achieve Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I did not realize it, but my water broke 4 days before I went to the hospital. There was a slow trickle of water that I noticed when I stood up and sat down for a few days. At 2:30 in the morning the day I had my baby, I went to go to the bathroom and I had a large gush of water. Weak contractions started after that. My husband and I decided to go to the hospital to confirm my water had broken. It did, but my doctor had to break the water the rest of the way to get things really moving. Once she did that, my contractions were intense and I knew a baby was coming soon.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging thing was keeping my mind set on going natural and not letting medical professionals or anyone else persuade me to have it otherwise. After the doctor broke my water, she wanted to give me pitocin right away, but I spoke up and requested to try letting my body do the work. She gave me 2 hours without pitocin to see if I could progress. And my body responded well on its own.

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

I took the Mama Natural Birth Course as well as read natural birth stories. I listened to birth affirmations and read Ina May's book on Natural Childbirth.

What surprised you about your birth?

How much fun it was and how fast it went! After the doctor broke my water the rest of the way it was only 4 hours and I had my baby boy in my arms. I kept a lighthearted and positive attitude in the delivery room which helped keep my mind focused on seeing my baby and not on the discomfort I was experiencing.

I confidently requested no pitocin and was confident that I could give birth naturally because my body was designed for just that.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I breathed through all the strong contractions. My mom applied pressure to my back in between contractions. Holding on to my husband also helped when I was pushing.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I pushed on my side, but when it was time for the baby to come, I had to deliver on my back.

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

Amazing. It was the best feeling in the world to finally hold my baby on my chest and in my arms.

How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?

The Mama Natural Birth Class helped me to have confidence when I was in the delivery room. I confidently requested no pitocin and was confident that I could give birth naturally because my body was designed for just that.