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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up at 2am on Friday feeling some on-and-off cramping. I was able to sleep a few more hours, but when I awoke I was sure something was happening!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Two things: Not knowing when it would end and I would see my baby, and the pushing stage. As a doula, I always told my clients that pushing was the easy part. Boy, was I wrong about that!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I've taken two different types of childbirth classes, for both my pregnancies. I like being as educated as possible about all my options. I was very relaxed this time around because I knew that I could, and I would, do it.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was most surprised by how everything felt. The contractions were intense, pushing was more difficult than I expected, and I will never forget how it felt when he came out and was placed on my chest.
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I like being as educated as possible about all my options. I was very relaxed this time around because I knew that I could, and I would, do it.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Moaning, moving, and laughing!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up on my side and my back. Honestly, I know it isn't best, but once I was there I was NOT moving. I had no desire to change my position.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was amazing. My daughter was born via cesarean and I didn't get to see or hold her for nearly an hour after birth. But when I did, it was so wonderful. I will never forget feeling my son emerge into this world and his floppy, wet, warm body being placed on my chest. My experience with my two children is different, but both were beautiful.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Reframe your mind. I went into labor expecting it to be work and intense, but not painful. Pain is breaking a bone. Labor is a process to get the baby out. I never once asked for pain meds, but I sure know why people get them!
