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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I was in the hospital having them test my fluid, to see if my waters had broken. It was a slow leak. They then insisted I labor there, hoping the contractions would begin. I walked around the halls for hours and eventually was induced with some pitocin. This was 10 days after my due date.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not succumbing to the pressure of an epidural. I had back labor because of the position of the baby. It became "unbearable" or so I thought, when the doula suggested pushing my hips firmly together during the contraction having me on my hands and knees. At first, I balked not wanted anyone to touch me because of the pain during contraction, but when she did, it helped sooo much!!! My husband and she took turns and it was a huge relief.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
A combination of walking, exercise, red raspberry leaf tea, dates, all seemed to help.
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What surprised you about your birth?
It was not without it's share of surprises i.e. having to be induced, back labor, but it was a beautiful empowering time.
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It's so possible. Don't let the obstacle's ruin the overall experience for you.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Leaning forward, shifting position, having husband and doula lightly stroke my skin and then push my hips together to relieve pressure on my pelvic bone.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back. The doctor needed to adjust baby's shoulder because it caught. She did this with amazing expertise and our lil man was not harmed in anyway.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
AMAZING
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
It's so possible. Don't let the obstacle's ruin the overall experience for you. You can't plan every little facet. Delight in the fact that it's your baby's birthday and that you have capable people willing to step in and support you!
