Birthing Classes and Hiring a Doula Helped Kayla During Her Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had started having contractions on a Saturday evening. They lasted all night and all day Sunday but stayed about 10 minutes apart and never progressed. I took a warm bath Sunday night and went to bed. An hour later I woke up to go to the bathroom and felt a "pop" when I stood up. That's when my water broke and contractions were 3-4 minutes apart and I realized I was finally in labor!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The pain was more intense than I had anticipated. Transition was really rough for me because I was not getting any break at all between contractions. Pushing was also very difficult since my little one had his arm across his chest with his hand on his face when he came out.

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

Educating myself on what to expect, taking birthing classes, and most importantly hiring a doula.

What surprised you about your birth?

I struggled with how much I progressed and how quickly or lack there of. I thought I had to be dilated at least to a 6 or 7 since my contractions were 3 minutes apart for a couple hours but to my surprise I was only dialated to a 3! I was upset and didn't think I could do it naturally at that point. That's when I soon realized that not everyone follows textbook labor patterns!

Educate and prepare yourself mentally as much as possible, have a good support team with you, and know that you are strong and can do it!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

My doula kept applying hot wash cloths to my back for relief. I tried the tub but it made the pain worse for me since I couldn't get comfortable or in a good position.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up pushing and delivering in a semi-side lying position on the bed.

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

Amazing and so surreal. I couldn't believe he was here or that I finally had our baby. I thought I would cry but I didn't. I just kept smiling and telling my husband "We have a baby!".

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

Educate and prepare yourself mentally as much as possible, have a good support team with you, and know that you are strong and can do it!