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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was in labor when the "Braxton Hicks" started becoming more rhythmic and closer together.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going natural (this time around) was remembering the pain from my last births. This was baby number 4 and for some reason, I started worrying this time about being able to manage transition.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Hands down, the best way to prepare for *especially* unmedicated childbirth, is to carefully choose the right care provider. My midwife left no stone unturned and guided me through each visit, each concern, each stage of labor, etc. I could read all the books, take all the classes and forget everything I learned when in the thick of labor, but my very experienced level headed midwife kept me in the game.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The only surprise I had with this birth was how sick I got. I'll leave the gory details out, but it was not vomiting.... other than that, I had 4 minutes of pushing and a healthy baby boy in my arms!
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My advice for anyone who wants to have an unmedicated birth is to carefully choose your care provider and then stay very far away from Dr Google. Watch natural births on YouTube, talk to other mamas who have done it before, watch Business of Being Born, build up your confidence in your ability to give birth naturally and then, and this is big... accept way in advance that no matter what, a healthy mom and baby is the most important thing and not having a natural birth.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The best pain relief for me this time was just focusing on breathing during each contraction and reminding myself that the pain is helping the baby get closer to me.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering on a birthing stool which is what the plan was. ?
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was such a beautiful moment to hold my son. I was super thankful that the worst part was over.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
My advice for anyone who wants to have an unmedicated birth is to carefully choose your care provider and then stay very far away from Dr Google. Watch natural births on YouTube, talk to other mamas who have done it before, watch Business of Being Born, build up your confidence in your ability to give birth naturally and then, and this is big... accept way in advance that no matter what, a healthy mom and baby is the most important thing and not having a natural birth.
