Going Through the Mama Natural Birth Course Helped Briana During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I knew I was in labor when my water broke around 4:45 in the morning.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging thing was the fear of the pain and the unknown.

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

The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was go through the Mama Natural classes. I had a basic understanding of childbirth but the classes filled in all the extra information I didn't know and helped me feel more familiar with the process. The most helpful thing about the classes were the videos of births with each one. This really helped me to get a better understanding of what to expect and see how other women experienced labor.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised that my labor started with my water breaking and that contractions never really started after.

The Mama Natural Birth Class helped me to understand the process of labor and give me a general idea of what to expect. It took away a decent amount of my fear of the unknown and reminded me that our bodies were made to do this!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The best pain relief strategy I used was breathing. And squeezing my husband's hand even though I know you're not supposed to tense up!

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up delivering in the typical position of laying on my back. I had started in a different position but wasn't comfortable so my midwife suggested laying down on my back. I'm not sure I would have had the energy to keep going in any other position.

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

Surreal. I definitely was not processing what was going on!

How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?

The Mama Natural Birth Class helped me to understand the process of labor and give me a general idea of what to expect. It took away a decent amount of my fear of the unknown and reminded me that our bodies were made to do this!