-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up at 6:30 in the morning and had my first "real" contraction. The feeling was deeper than the Braxton Hicks I'd been having for weeks, and when they kept coming about every five minutes for a half an hour, I knew labor had started.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Surrendering to the pain. I had a posterior baby, and the back labor was very intense.
-
image
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Committing to myself that I would have a natural birth was essential! Once I make up my mind to do something, I do it.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it was! This was my third baby and my shortest labor. From the first contraction to holding him in my arms was a little over four hours.
-
Committing to myself that I would have a natural birth was essential!
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
I went through transition on the way to the hospital in the backseat of the car. It was miserable! Sitting through the contractions was NOT an option. Alternating from being on my hands and knees in the backseat or sitting up on my knees and leaning over the headrests was all I could really do.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
I was lying on my right side while I was pushing, and just before he was born I turned to be more on my back.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Absolutely glorious! We waited to find out the gender with this baby, (I already had 2 sweet boys) and when I pulled him out and brought him up to my chest, getting to say "it's a boy!" was so fun!
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Commit to yourself that you'll do it no matter what. And make sure you find a supportive care provider! My practice has 2 doctors and 2 midwives, and they were all so supportive of my decision to go natural without interventions.
