Envisioning The Baby Move Through The Birth Canal Helped Erin During Contractions

When did you realize you were really in labor?

We were supposed to have a home birth, but I developed Cholestasis at the end, so we eventually chose to head to the hospital to be induced to play it safe. They started my pitocin drip at around 2am. I started feeling pretty crampy around 6am and had bloody show. By 7:30am, I was starting to become pretty uncomfortable during contractions and they were coming about every 2-3min apart. Around 9am, our midwife came to the hospital for support.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I had an aweful experience with my first birth in the military hospital. We were induced for that one, as well, and my body did not handle it well. We had just about every intervention possible and I was in massive pain and was not progressing past a 5. So for this labor, I was terrified of not progressing, even though contractions were getting very close and very painful.

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

I remember reading that, for some women, envisioning the baby move through the birth canal with each contraction, helped with the pain. This is something that I out into play. I tried to just ride the waves of pain instead of fighting them.

What surprised you about your birth?

How quick it went. Our first birth from the time they started my pitocin drip was 31 hours. With this birth, I had about 4 hours of feeling nothing, an hour of starting to become painful, and about 3 hours of pretty painful contractions. I only pushed for 3 contractions before baby girl arrived. The recovery has also been much better than with the first.

Always keep your mind open to changes in your birth plan. We had every plan to deliver at home, but in the end, we weren't able to. But it was still a wonderful experience. Remember that in the end, the most important thing is that there is a healthy momma and healthy baby.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Deep groans, praying, getting on all fours and swaying my hips

What position did you end up delivering in?

Turned around leaning over the back of the hospital bed.

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

Great. I was relieved that I was able to do it without an epidural

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

Always keep your mind open to changes in your birth plan. We had every plan to deliver at home, but in the end, we weren't able to. But it was still a wonderful experience. Remember that in the end, the most important thing is that there is a healthy momma and healthy baby.