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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up around 1am with contractions I couldn't sleep through but I had been having (prodromal labor) contractions on and off for about two weeks. Around 2:30 am I figured this was the real thing and woke up my husband.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going natural was trying to make the best decisions for the safety of my baby. My doctor was worried about me being over due and that my baby was measuring big. She wanted to have me schedule and induction. It's hard to know how long it's safe to wait. I ended up going into labor on my own the morning before the scheduled induction.
The nurses were awesome but some practices medical staff do are not super conducive to natural childbirth. They want a reactive NST (which usually takes about 20-30 minutes) and that is best done laying reclined on your back. I wanted to make sure baby was doing well but it was very uncomfortable. I was able to move off the bed after about a half hour.
During the pushing stage my labor nurse asked me to lay down. In some cases the medical staff need patients to lay down to perform procedures or to ensure baby is doing well. I had told my husband that I probably wouldn't want to push on my back so he was able to advocate for me. In my case the nurse usually delivered babies with the mom reclined on her back so she was just following the normal process. I was able to use a squatting bar and pushed on my side.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Being a labor and delivery nurse was super helpful. I was able to watch multiple different types of births and see what the options were in my facility. I also communicated early with my OB doctor and with the nurses at the hospital about how I'd like my delivery to go. I think talking with my husband about our birth plan was the most helpful because he was sane when we had to make decisions and he was my focal point through some of the worst contractions.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised how easy it went. I couldn't believe it was over and it was uncomplicated. I had prepared for the worst, especially after scheduling an induction, but everything went fast and fairly smooth. don't get me wrong, it wasn't painless but I was mentally prepared for a longer pushing stage.
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Prepare beforehand, have a good support team, be determined, and trust that God has it under control.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Moving! Even at the end when I had to stay in bed I was able to do hands and knees, squatting with the bar, side lying, etc.
I had a music play list of songs that reminded me of God's love and power.
My husband was right there with me and helped me breathe and stay in control.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered on my side with my top leg on the birthing bar.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I honestly was in shock from the delivery. It took me a while to "come back to earth". I was so happy to see him and that he was healthy.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Prepare beforehand, have a good support team, be determined, and trust that God has it under control.