Having a Bunch of Supportive Friends Helped Ashley During Her Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had a few teases in the week before so I was denying I was in labor. This with my 4th baby and I've always had days of prodromal labor. My contractions were all over the place the night before . But I woke up in the middle of the night with bloody show and pretty decent contractions that were 1.5 minutes apart so I knew it was the real thing.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I think because I'd already been through it before I had a combined feeling of "I've done this, I can totally do it again" and "I've done this and I forgot until now how much of a challenge it is" Part of me worried that something would happen this time that would keep me from having the kind of birth experiences I'd come to expect.

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

I invited a bunch of my friends to come to my home for the birth. They supported me fully in my pregnancy, always willing to come help me with anything. During the birth they were so helpful in taking care of my older kids, fetching things from the store and cheering me on when I needed it. I'm so lucky to have an amazing community around me.

What surprised you about your birth?

After I went through transiton everything stalled. My midwives called it a "rest and be thankful" so I did. I knew it was normal but didn't expect so many breaks. When I had a contraction I felt a little pushy but then it would end and I wouldn't have another for 15-20 minutes. This happened 4-5 times and I actually laid down and slept hard during the rests. When I finally got up I was having more of an urge to push. I put my hand down to see if I could feel her head but all I felt was this massive bulge from my waters still being intact. That cushion was keeping her head from really putting pressure on my cervix and I knew if my water broke that should come right out. I was done so I asked my midwife to break them. She had a really hard time breading it, no wonder it still hadn't broken! She probably would've been born in the caul if I had more patience. But just a few more contractions after that and she was born into my hands.

You're body is made for this. There's nothing more empowering. It's not easy but it's totally worth it.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I like to be upright and moving. I always need my husband right with me, supporting me. He's my rock and having him with me makes things less intense.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Squatting at the foot of my bed with my husband supporting me

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

Relief, excitement, pure joy

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

You're body is made for this. There's nothing more empowering. It's not easy but it's totally worth it.