Breathing Techniques Learned From Pregnancy Yoga Helped Mariska Through Her Contractions

When did you realize you were really in labor?

It all started with my water breaking in the morning. I was just in time to get out of bed! When the splash hit the floor, my partner said to me: " It's happening today!" I instantly recognized the feeling of contractions. It felt like cramps I used to have before my menstrual cycle.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I didn't think it was challenging at all - I believed going natural would be less challenging as we are made to do this! As a matter of fact, I was scared that I may end up in the hospital (every time my midwife discussed this, my blood pressure would increase :-). I really wanted to have a home birth and I did. I used the birthing chair for the last part and I would highly recommend this. It felt natural to be in an upright position to give birth.

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

In terms of physical preparation, I think drinking red raspberry leaf tea really helped a lot in having a smooth labor. In terms of mental preparation it helped me to realize that every contraction would bring my baby closer to me and that every contraction helped me giving birth. I started pregnancy yoga two months prior to birth and the breathing techniques taught helped me through every contraction. In addition, my partner was also of great help! I knew he would be there for me and he was!

What surprised you about your birth?

The natural drug rush after giving birth. I can't really remember giving birth to the placenta or the stitches afterwards. It surprised me that it all went so fast - from contractions to birth it lasted 4,5 hrs. Before I knew it, I had a beautiful baby boy in my arms!

Believe in yourself and your powers. Don't be afraid of the pain - it will make it more painful! Be calm and collected and focus on seeing and holding your baby for the first time. Your body knows what to do so pay attention to what it says.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I used breathing techniques I learned during pregnancy yoga. As the contraction started, I inhaled deeply and slowly and exhaled deeply and slowly as the contraction subsided. My partner helped in pushing down on my lower back when contractions were most intense.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered on a birthing chair, so it was an upright position.

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

I couldn't believe I just delivered our baby! It was surreal but beautiful.

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

Believe in yourself and your powers. Don't be afraid of the pain - it will make it more painful! Be calm and collected and focus on seeing and holding your baby for the first time. Your body knows what to do so pay attention to what it says.