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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up at 2:40am at 39.1 weeks to my water breaking in bed. It all broke at once, which was really surprising. I texted my doula and called the midwife to let them know. Within the hour contractions started coming 2-3 minutes apart, and I knew I was definitely in labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Going natural was not difficult as I was 100% set on having a natural birth. The difficult part was that I was unable to labor and deliver at the birth center like I had planned due to meconium in my waters. So being in the hospital was challenging mentally and emotionally at first, but it ended up working out just fine as they let me labor how I wanted with intermittent monitoring.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Hired a fantastic doula, came up with a birth plan in case a hospital transfer was necessary, and most importantly made sure my husband and I were on the same page with what I wanted for birth so that we would be a team during labor. Also, education is key! Take childbirth classes, ask the midwives and your doula questions, and read blogs like mama natural.
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What surprised you about your birth?
After laboring for 8 hours and progressing to 6cm, the doctor said something was wrong when he checked me and so quickly did an ultrasound. It turned out that our baby girl was breech (which no one knew!) with her bottom down and head/feet up. It was a huge shock and resulted in me needing a c-section, which was definitely not part of my plan.
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You can do it! It's hard and people may try to discourage you, but know that it's worth it. Even though I ended up needing a c-section, I still feel so empowered that I was able to labor naturally leading up to the surgery. Also know that if things don't go according to plan (like mine), that it still can be a beautiful, empowering experience and oh so worth it! Build yourself up a team that will support you and you'll be able to get through anything.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing and staying calm! It really makes all the difference even though it's hard to do.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
C - section
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Incredible! It was instant love at first sight! I've never been more overwhelmed with love before. This sweet baby girl stole my heart.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! It's hard and people may try to discourage you, but know that it's worth it. Even though I ended up needing a c-section, I still feel so empowered that I was able to labor naturally leading up to the surgery. Also know that if things don't go according to plan (like mine), that it still can be a beautiful, empowering experience and oh so worth it! Build yourself up a team that will support you and you'll be able to get through anything.
