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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When it got too hard to talk during the contractions. Even then I couldn’t believe it was possible! It wasn’t until being admitted into the hospital & my mom said “you are having this baby today” that I finally accepted it was happening.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The transition pain from 9cm-10cm. That’s when I almost gave up. But my nurse team told me I was so close to pushing. Helped get me through that stage.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Reading other positive birth stories and reading my positive birth affirmations regularly. It really got me in the mindset that I could do it naturally. Also, I really think drinking red raspberry leaf tea, eating dates, & bouncing on my birthing ball helped prepare my body get baby positioned.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised that even though it hurt, it was bearable and possible to endure. I was surprised by my own ability. Very empowering to look back on now.
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God designed your body to endure this pain to bring your baby into this world. Know and believe that you CAN do hard things. The stronger the pain the closer you are to seeing your baby. ?
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I had back labor the whole time. So my husband and doula pushing on my back for every contraction made a huge difference. Also closing my eyes and resting between contractions helped me be ready for the next wave of pain.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I was just too relieved that she was healthy and finally in my arms. All my worry and fears melted away.
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What did you name your baby, and why?
Her name is a Charlotte Blake. We thought it was very pretty and Blake is my husband's middle name so I was happy to have them share that.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
God designed your body to endure this pain to bring your baby into this world. Know and believe that you CAN do hard things. The stronger the pain the closer you are to seeing your baby. ?
