Educating Herself, Birth Plan, Her Doula And Communicating With Her Husband Helped Jerri Ann During Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I didn’t, my husband had to wake me up and tell me it was time to go! Even though my contractions were only a few minutes apart, I would fall asleep between them. After counting them for 3 hours and calling the midwife, he decided it was time to go.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Believing in myself! As labor progressed and I began to get tired, my confidence also declined.

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

Educate myself on labor process— read, read, read! Make the birth plan no matter what anyone says. Hire a doula. Communicate with your husband about your plan and how you need him to help. Have a supportive birth team.

What surprised you about your birth?

I knew going in that I wanted an unmedicated birth, but I underestimated the power of hormones—I was surprised at how my own body’s hormones managed the pain. “Labor land” is a real place and your body can naturally take you there so the pain is manageable.

Completely surreal. This was our third pregnancy, we miscarried our first two so finally getting to hold our rainbow baby was the most amazing moment of both our lives—as you can see from the picture.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Water! The tub rooms were taken but I spent a great deal of time in the shower on a medicine ball. Counter pressure for the back labor and changing positions between contractions.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Inclined lying on my back

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

Completely surreal. This was our third pregnancy, we miscarried our first two so finally getting to hold our rainbow baby was the most amazing moment of both our lives—as you can see from the picture.

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

Read Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth. Believe in the power of the woman’s body! Hire a doula. Have a list of pain coping strategies you want to use. Find a team that supports your birth wishes. Empower your husband to help!