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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had been having contractions here and there for a couple of days, but when they woke me up in the middle of the night and started coming regularly, I knew labor had started. I called my doctors office and they asked if I wanted to labor at home for awhile and I said "no " I'll just come in. It's a good thing I did because my labor was only 2.5 hours from start to finish.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The hardest part for me is going through the pain of transition. I can handle the contractions up until that part, but that's when I start doubting myself.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Positive thinking. I remember my husband reminding me to relax and open; to let my body do what it was trying to do...not to fight it. That helped so much!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it was. I've always had fast labors, but this was the fastest. I was grateful that I was able to get to the hospital in time to have the birth I wanted.
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Have faith in yourself and know that, yes it is painful, but that pain won't last forever and the reward is beyond worth it!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The tub was amazing for me! I had lavender oil in the water which further helped to relax me. I was so glad I was able to utilize the tub and the birthing ball.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I went into transition while in the tub, but since I couldn't birth my baby in the tub, I got out and went to the bed and started pushing while laying on my back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! This was my fifth child and it never gets old or any less exciting.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Have faith in yourself and know that, yes it is painful, but that pain won't last forever and the reward is beyond worth it!
