-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I started getting painful contractions - I knew these were contractions, they were like nothing I'd ever felt before! They started off coming very quickly, three minutes apart, so I thought that was it. Little did I know that I had two days of latent labour ahead of me before established labour.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Labour is crazy and there were moments I felt really out of control.
-
DSC_0174
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Keep myself open to things going whichever way they had to. My birth was nothing like my birth plan - but I kind of expected that.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
The pushing stage felt good!
-
You can do it. Don't panic and work with your support team. I remember thinking how horrendous it was at the time, but looking back the pain and craziness was part of what made it all so special.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Water was amazing. I was surprised just how much baths in latent labour calmed me down and actually reduced the amount of pain I was feeling, and in active labour I had a shower which was great (i didn't want to get out). I didn't have time to get into a birthing pool in the end but I expect this would have helped as much as the baths and showers.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
On my knees on the floor, leaning on the bed. That was the position I happened to be in when it started getting serious, and I didn't want to move! So it wasn't planned and I didn't really try any other positions.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I just couldn't stop gazing at her, she was so beautiful and I couldn't believe she was my baby. It was so sweet and peaceful and I was so happy to share the moment with my husband.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it. Don't panic and work with your support team. I remember thinking how horrendous it was at the time, but looking back the pain and craziness was part of what made it all so special.
