Hypnobabies Helped Maggie Focus Her Mind To Ride Out Contractions

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had my membranes stripped at 38 weeks because I had preeclampsia and was facing induction any day. I had already been on bed rest for a few weeks, and I was determined to avoid a medical induction if possible. Contractions started about 3 hours after the sweep, but I thought it might be false labor. I didn't actually expect the sweep to send me into labor since I was still a couple weeks away from my due date. But within another 3-4 hours the contractions were strong, and coming ever 3-4 minutes, so we headed to the hospital.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

For me, the hardest part of birth is pushing. With my first child, I tore badly, and I wanted to push differently this time. I pushed on all 4s and let my body tell me when and how to push, and it was a much slower and more gentle experience-but definitely still hard. I'm so thankful that I was able to have a water birth, because I find the water to be so soothing.

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

I did Hypnobabies with my first pregnancy, and the skills I learned from that served me well during my second birth too. I'm able to focus my mind in a way that really allows me to ride out the contractions without fixating on the pain.

What surprised you about your birth?

I'm surprised that I was able to experience completely unmedicated birth. I had preeclampsia with my first pregnancy as well, and was induced at 39 weeks. I was able to go natural, but induction definitely changes childbirth. This time, it was very important to me to be able to experience birth without any medical intervention and I'm thankful that my doctor was totally on board with me. My son's birth was fast, but still felt so peaceful. I felt very much in control the whole time, and very, very calm. I felt such a sense of elation when my son was born and I realized that I'd done it!

It's something that you really need to prepare for. Take classes, or read books, and make sure your partner is on board as well. Also, make sure your doctor is supportive of natural childbirth. I also highly recommend a doula. I had a doula with each of my births, and she was absolutely invaluable to both myself and my husband.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Focusing on my breath is huge for me. Also, imagining that each contraction is like a wave, where it builds and crests, and then recedes. I also highly recommended birthing in the water, or at least laboring in the water. The water gives me such relief.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I pushed on all 4s, but ended up turning and delivering on my back at the end. It just felt right.

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

Amazing. I don't think I've ever smiled bigger!

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

It's something that you really need to prepare for. Take classes, or read books, and make sure your partner is on board as well. Also, make sure your doctor is supportive of natural childbirth. I also highly recommend a doula. I had a doula with each of my births, and she was absolutely invaluable to both myself and my husband.