Hiring A Doula Again Helped Jeannette Achieve Her Second Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

Baby boy was due Nov. 4. I was having very mild, irregular contractions for about a week. On the 6th, I was 5cm and 75% effaced. I had membranes swept but nothing happened. On the 9th, I was having more intense but still pretty mild and irregular contractions. I was 6 cm and 90% effaced. My first child came quickly so my midwife had us check in. We checked in at noon and contractions were still mild. At 1:30 PM I was at a 7 and 95% so they didn't want to send me home. My midwife broke my water at 1:40. Contractions were intense and non-stop at 1:50 (which is when you could say I knew for sure). Baby boy was here an hour later, at 2:50 PM.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I thought having a natural birth the first time would give me the confidence to do it a second time. Instead, it was a reminder of what I was in for. I really thought I couldn't do it again. The mental aspect was more challenging.

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

I hired a doula again. It helps me to know there's someone who will advocate for our wishes and who will help give us information if things don't go according to plan.

What surprised you about your birth?

How fast it went and how far I was before labor stated, how different it was from my first (4 hours of active labor, my water again had to be broken, but contractions stopped afterwards until pushing so I was surprised that my water breaking caused contractions this time), and how big baby was (9lbs 3oz, compared to 6lbs 10oz for my first - didn't feel different during pushing).

I thought having a natural birth the first time would give me the confidence to do it a second time. Instead, it was a reminder of what I was in for. I really thought I couldn't do it again. The mental aspect was more challenging.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

none. I was happy to be able to move positions, but it was an intense 1 hour of delivery and the pain was not relieved. Having a doula there to massage and provide pressure on certain areas felt good despite the pain.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Started pushing in a squat position holding on to the back of the bed. Ultimately, I delivered on my back.

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

Amazing. It's a high I can't explain and I feel addicted to that moment

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

Although contractions are painful being able to feel helps at the pushing stage (for me at least). Surround yourself with people who really support your goal (partner, doula, family, friends). I found it helpful to be able to articulate my reasons: wanting to try different positions, to avoid other medications such as pitocin, etc.