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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When we had already been to hospital once, way too early. The night nurse said, "you'll know" as we left. And when it was really time, I did know. We labored at home for two hours before going to the hospital the second time. And my son was born 6 hours later.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Keeping on task when there are other influences/hospital "rules." I.V.'s, fetal monitors, tests. Once things get rolling you're in survival mode. I have to consider my birth *mostly* natural. During transition I gave into the suggestion of taking Demerol. By that point though I didn't notice a difference...everything was still...intense. And thankfully my baby was bright eyed and bushy tailed when he came out...no signs of being "drugged." I did not have an epidural. And I would definitely go that route again and no meds (though I feel no need to mourn over it ). I DO understand why people go the non- natural route, but I would encourage every healthy pregnant mom to go natural. It's hard, but not impossible. Have people with you that know your desires and share your birth vision. It makes a difference in the tough moments.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Two main things helped me prepare. Firstly, I stayed really active. I ate as best as I could at the time, (my pregnancy was during a difficult season in life) but I tried to focus on my Bradley exercises and and walking. Secondly, I spent a good deal of time praying and meditating to music. A natural mama friend of mine gave me a worship CD she used during her labor, and I listened to it religiously during my pregnancy.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How it was so primal. Once the contractions got *intense* everything else went out the window. I just had to breathe and focus in on every second. It was like nothing I had ever experienced. It was powerful. Not bad, or painful in memory...just intense. That's the best word. Also, how quickly you feel normal again. I mean 20 minutes after birth I was walking around, chatting and eating. It was so crazy to me. I was thinking, wait, what just happened??
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It was like nothing I had ever experienced. It was powerful. Not bad, or painful in memory...just intense.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing! I was amazed at how much it helped. We used some counter pressure as well.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back. Hospital policy. I will fight to the death for a different story next go round.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Honestly, the very first time I held him to nurse, right after birth, wasn't what I thought it would be. I thought I would be crying, and so happy. But I was just glad it was finished at that point! Once I had been stitched up from my 2 degree tear and was rolling down the hallway I was beaming. So proud and showing my sweet boy to all the nurses in the L&D!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! Prepare your body, eat well and stay active. IT IS HARD, but NOT impossible. All that difficulty is producing something wonderful.
