Breathing Through The Surges and Focusing Helped Erin During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

Around 8 am on the 27th I could hear my almost 2 year old playing in his crib upstairs. I rolled from one side to the other and realized I felt wetness and went to check; I believe this is when my water broke and I had a "bloody show". About 2 hours after that my surges began with period like cramping.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Doubting yourself! My entire labor was very easy going with period like cramps, until I was fully dilated and ready to go. However, I didn't realize it quite then and was about to cave for an epidural! Thankfully a nurse checked and said it was time to push!

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

I loosely studied hypnobirthing, but mostly just made sure I reassured myself that this is something I could do!

What surprised you about your birth?

I was quite surprised at how quick and easy it was! My actual labor was only about 3 hours long, and was only painful for the last 15 minutes or so. The recovery was amazing compared to my first delivery with an epidural.

Set your mind to do it and you can!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Breathing through the surges and focusing on them being what would bring me closer to seeing my baby. Not being stationary and stuck in bed was a huge help! The birthing ball took my mind off the pain and gave me something else to focus on.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Unfortunately I was bullied into being on my back because the OB on that day (not my OB), said her shoulders would get stuck if I was on my knees or on all fours. Thankfully I knew it was not going to take long for her to arrive and I was not in a position to argue, so I ended up on my back.

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

Euphoric! I had the labor and delivery I wanted (minus being on my back for delivery) and my little girl was safe and healthy! I felt empowered as a woman and a mom!

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

Set your mind to do it and you can! Make sure your spouse or SO is on board with your wants and desires! And check with wherever you are birthing and make sure you will be allowed to deliver how you want to! Hypnobabies was helpful as far as meditation techniques and I would suggest that for sure!