Angela Created Her Intimate Natural Hospital Birth Experience

When did you realize you were really in labor?

My water broke at about 4pm on the Thursday afternoon. I was due the Monday before. We called our midwife to let her know and we decided to meet at the hospital around lunchtime the next day if nothing else happened. I was over the moon to have beaten the induction scheduled for Friday morning. I didn't want any interventions I had a few small contractions overnight, but nothing regular and I was able to sleep. It wasn't until just after 6pm the following night that contractions started seriously. They were strong and regular from the start and I had to rock through them.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I had always wanted a natural birth, unfortunately it didn't happen the first time round. This time I was excited about it! I had a fully supportive partner and an amazing midwife. Although I wasn't able to labour and birth in our local birthing center or at home because of my age (42) and the baby's estimated size (11 lb), it was still very private, personal and unmedicalised at the hospital.
Just the three of us in the room, which is what I had planned.
Keeping it natural was the challenge for me, rather than going natural.

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

Knowing exactly what we wanted to happen and having an amazing midwife to support us towards that goal.
Ye being open-minded and knowing that sometimes plans change.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised that you continue to make amniotic fluid once your membranes rupture. I thought once your water broke, that would be it. How did I not know this?
I was also surprised at how quickly the pain was gone once I started pushing. It was the contractions which hurt, not the actual birthing.

Knowing exactly what we wanted to happen and having an amazing midwife to support us towards that goal. Yet being open-minded and knowing that sometimes plans change.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

We had all sorts of things planned. Hot towels, massage, walking, counter pressure. In the end we didn't use any of it. Active labour started at at about 6.15 and he was born at 10.24. I found swearing and concentrating on my partners hand was all I needed. He said later that he didn't know I could swear like a sailor.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was on my knees leaning over the back of the bed.

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

Absolute elation and joy. The pregnancy had a very rocky start, so getting this far and meeting my wee man was a dream come true for me. Knowing this would be my last baby, I really made a point of remembering everything and taking my time to enjoy the moment. We had two hours of skin to skin and he fed before our midwife did the big weigh and measure. We did optimal cord clamping as well, to give him the best start.

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

Have a supportive team and make sure you trust your midwife implicitly.