Groaning, Popsicles And Ice Chips Helped Melissa During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had to be induced, actually. My son was measuring small in the last few weeks and it was getting to dangerous for him at the end. Turns out his umbilical cord was deteriorating. The placenta was really healthy, though.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I didn't go naturally like I had hoped. I was induced on August 8, 2017 and he was born on August 9 at 9:35 PM.

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

We just hoped and prayed everything would go smoothly. And so it did. It only took me two hours to get him out. And my total labor time was 26 hours and 35 minutes. Not bad for a first timer, huh?

What surprised you about your birth?

The amount of blood loss is what surprised me the most. I knew I would lose a lot, but I had no idea I would lose as much as I did. LOL!???

Try to go natural if you can. Being induced isn't fun. This was my first and I was really hoping I'd go down that path, too, but it wasn't meant to be.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Grunting, moaning, and groaning belief to distract me from the contractions. And my bf kept getting me popsicles and ice chips and comforted me the whole time. He hardly ever left my side unless I asked for something. He was my only support there. He was awesome.???

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up lying on my back during delivery because of my epidural. I was too numb to change positions so, I had no choice. I suppose I could've asked, but I just wanted to get it done and over with. Plus, my boy was pressing on a nerve on my right leg which made me get more numb so, I was literally stuck. LOL!???

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

Oh my God, I must have cried for at least ten minutes after he was born. I was worried I wouldn't bond with him right away and suddenly, the tears just rushed over me.??? I fell in love with him instantly.??? His name is Tru Sky Peyton and he weighed in at 6lbs 14oz and measured 20.5 inches long.

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

Try to go natural if you can. Being induced isn't fun. This was my first and I was really hoping I'd go down that path, too, but it wasn't meant to be. Maybe I wouldn't have needed that epidural so badly in the end if I went naturally. I hope for all the moms who want a natural birth that they get just that.