A VBAC Refresher And Freely Telling Her Birth Plan Helped Courtney Achieve Her VBAC Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I woke up a little after 1 a.m on Labor Day and my contractions were getting worse no matter what I did! So after weeks of prodromal labor it was finally the real deal.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

After having 2 c-section I was determined to do whatever it took to make sure I could successfully VBAC but after 20 hours of labor I asked for an epidural.

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

I took a VBAC refresher where it was just my partner and I and we focused on any topic I wanted more information about. It was very helpful! I liked it just being 3 of us so that I could talk freely about my wishes and we focused on my birth plan. I also read anything I could get my hands on for child birth so I could be prepared.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was able to successfully VBAC after 2 cesareans and my whole team was so supportive of my choice. It felt amazing to be able to catch my little man and have immediate skin to skin.

You can do it! Focus on what helps you through. Read everything you can get your hands on and express your wants to your team ahead of time.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The shower was amazing as well as the birthing ball!

What position did you end up delivering in?

In bed because of the epidural

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

It was amazing, he was fresh out of the womb and being able to experience that was awesome.

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

You can do it! Focus on what helps you through. Read everything you can get your hands on and express your wants to your team ahead of time.