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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had been having contractions every 10 minutes all day long. At bedtime they started coming more often. I knew baby was on his way!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging part was during transition, when I did not realize I was going through transition. The contractions were very intense, and I was imagining having to endure that level of pain for several hours. In reality, this part was very short!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Besides taking a Bradley Method class, the most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was to exercise regularly. I walked often and did special exercises (tailor sitting, pelvic tilts, etc) on a daily basis.
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What surprised you about your birth?
This was my 4th natural birth. In all my prior births my water broke 5-6 hours before delivery. Not this time! Since my water had not broken I thought I had hours of very intense labor remaining. When my water broke, I was suddenly ready for delivery and had my baby in my arms within minutes! It happened so suddenly I wasn't mentally prepared to push, and then it was all over, leaving my head spinning!
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If you really want to go natural, you have to be completely committed. There is no question, it is hard, but keep in mind you are giving your baby the best possible beginning!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Early on I took a warm bath. This provided instant relief for the pain in my back. It was so relaxing, and my husband sat next to the tub and held my hand.
When labor got intense, laboring on hands and knees while my husband and nurse took turns applying counter pressure to my lower back was the most helpful. Blowing out the contractions in a very gutteral moan gave an additional level of pain relief.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was reclined, but mostly upright. My husband and nurse held my feet, while I held my knees to my chest, with my elbows out, and my chin down to my chest.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! There was also a huge sense of relief that the experience was over and our baby had arrived safe and healthy.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
If you really want to go natural, you have to be completely committed. There is no question, it is hard, but keep in mind you are giving your baby the best possible beginning! Surround yourself with support people who will support your decision to go natural, as they are the ones who will help you when the going gets tough. It is a mental game... When you think you can't handle it any more, chances are you are in transition... It is almost over!
