-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had Braxton Hicks contractions the whole day on a Saturday, waiting for them to progress and NOTHING! Woke up Sunday as usual and had no contractions that day. Monday morning I woke to use the restroom and had a slightly more painful contraction. they began and were about two minutes apart. Once I could no longer speak through the contractions I knew it was time to head to the hospital.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Definitely the pain! Obviously having a baby hurts! But knowing that I was doing what was safest for me and my baby was very rewarding.
-
image18
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
We hired a doula, and I'm so glad we did! She was so helpful preparing us for what was to come and "connecting the dots" for my husband.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
It was quick! My first contraction was at 530am and my son was born at 1030! It wasn't easy, but it wasn't too long.
-
There is nothing special about anyone else who does it naturally, except that they pushed to have the birth that they wanted. In the end, you and your baby is all that matters.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
In the beginning I was able to lean over the back of the couch, countertop, etc and sway through the contractions. Closer to his arrival, there wasn't much to do to curb the pain.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
I was sitting at the edge of the hospital bed but I got so tired I ended up leaning back in a half sitting/half lying position.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was surreal. No one can explain how it feels to finally meet the person who's been kicking you day and night.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it. There is nothing special about anyone else who does it naturally, except that they pushed to have the birth that they wanted. In the end, you and your baby is all that matters.
