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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When my "Braxton Hicks" contractions became painful and I could no longer talk through them. And when I sent my husband and toddler outside because I couldn't focus with their commotion!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The intensity and frequency of contractions. That probably sounds "duh," but even after reading a bunch of natural birth books, lots of prenatal yoga, meetings with my doula, etc., I was still surprised by how much work it was! I was expecting more rest between contractions, but they were right on top of each other almost right away. I think I had 6 contractions in the 10 minutes it took us to get out of the car at valet and up to the birthing floor lobby.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Having a doula, having a great midwife team that was supportive of my wishes for a VBAC without an epidural, and staying active throughout pregnancy. Oh, and a music playlist!
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What surprised you about your birth?
Hmmm... how bossy I was?! Haha. Normally I'm a pretty laid back person, but once I was in labor I had VERY strong preferences regarding the temperature of the room, the brightness of the lights, the talking of people in the room, the positions I wanted to be in and didn't want to be in, and on and on. I'm glad I was so vocal, though, because it helped my partner, doula, nurses and midwife to be most helpful.
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Choose a supportive provider, hire a supportive doula, get your partner on board, and don't let other people get to your head! Same goes for wanting a VBAC.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Birthing tub, exercise ball, double hip squeezes, shoulder and back massage, nitrous oxide.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back/side with my knees up. The midwife recommended this because of the baby's position and while I didn't think this sounded great, it felt fine once I was there and I only had to push for a half hour or so.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing, of course. Though I was less emotional than I expected to be. I was so tuckered out and was relieved to be able to catch my breath! My baby latched and started breastfeeding much more quickly and naturally than my first baby who had been delivered by Cesarean section.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Choose a supportive provider, hire a supportive doula, get your partner on board, and don't let other people get to your head! Same goes for wanting a VBAC.
