Educating Herself On The Entire Process And Stages Of Labor Helped Breana Achieve Her Natural Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was 40 weeks and 3 days. I experienced lite cramping throughout the day randomly. Around 11 pm the cramps started to intensify. The cramping felt like it was coming in waves where it slowly increased, peaked, then subsided. Once I noticed the pattern I knew it was time. Around 12:30 am I lost my mucus plug. From that point on I tried to distract myself with TV, snacks, and coconut water.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging part about going natural was the intense sensations. I kept having to remind myself to let go and take each wave as it came.

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

I educated myself on the entire process and stages of labor. Understanding what I was experiencing was very comfortable and served as a reminder that everything was progressing exactly as it should. Becoming knowledgeable took away the fear of the unknown. I also enjoyed reading positive birth stories and positive affirmations.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was incredibly impressed with myself. Early in my pregnancy, I doubted if I could actually bring my child into this world without pain medicine. Once I was in labor I found out how strong I really am. The excitement of meeting my son for the first time kept me going.

Believe in yourself. You can do this no matter what anyone says.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I relaxed my whole body and did my best not to tense up with the waves. I completely let go and gave into the moment. Standing up and moving around made the waves easier to deal with. I would lean against a wall while my partner applied pressure to my lower back. I also found that being vocal was very helpful. I stuck to low pitch moans.

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

It was amazing. He felt so familiar to me like we were being reunited. I was so happy to see him and relieved that after a long 21 hours of labor we were finally together. I was so anxious to bring him home.

What did you name your baby, and why?

I named my son Dezi Lovell. The middle name Lovell is a tribute to my late Father and means “wolf cub”. The name Dezi was chosen by my partner who was a huge fan of “I Love Lucy” Desi is the name of the actor who plays Ricky. It also means Desired. Dezi is our desired wolf cub.

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

Believe in yourself. You can do this no matter what anyone says. Educate yourself on the process of birth so you can know what to expect. Understanding what is happening is very reassuring. Surround yourself with positive and motivating support. Having people around you to remind you how strong you are is so helpful. My partner kept me focused on my goal and was there to meet all my needs. Having someone to remind your breathing, drink water, and massage you is a Godsend when your in the thick of it. Surrender to the process and take each wave as it comes. Labor is manageable if you take it moment by moment. Remember your little one is waiting for you.