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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was at 39 weeks and I was still working. Throughout the day, I had been having pains in my stomach. But since this was my first birth, I didn't know what to expect. After my colleague asked me if I was in labor (after I held my side during a contraction), I had to stop and think about it. I called my OB/GYN's nurses line and explained my symptoms. They confirmed that I was probably in labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
It was a long timeline. I considered myself in the early stages of labor at 9:30 AM on Thursday and gave birth at 5:30 PM on Friday.
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1-day-old
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Doula, doula, doula. Having a doula, an experienced person who was not as emotionally connected as my husband and I were, was so helpful. She kept us calm, protected our interests, and helped us to see when it was time to transition to the hospital, time to push, etc.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I really enjoyed giving birth, which I didn't think was possible. It was painful, but it was also beautiful and exhilarating.
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I really enjoyed giving birth, which I didn't think was possible. It was painful, but it was also beautiful and exhilarating.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Baths, a half glass of wine, swaying on all fours.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back - I had a lot of freedom of movement throughout labor, but when it was time, I was on that darn hospital bed.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was the biggest relief in the world. I was exhausted, but so proud of myself and amazed that I had accomplished this feat.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! Take your time and stay at home as long as you can, so that you can labor where you are comfortable. Also, get a doula. It is so worth the investment.
