Learning Breathing Techniques Helped Grace During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

5:00 am Thursday morning my contractions were consistently about 10 minutes apart. I started tracking them at 6:00. I laid in bed til about 7:00.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I didn't know what to expect or how long contractions would last. I was progressing so slowly, by the end of the day Thursday I was exhausted and still in so much pain even between contraction that I could barely move and my whole body was shaking. Yet I was only dilated to 4cm.

What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?

Learn breathing techniques. I was able to relax at the end of contractions that I fell asleep and could rest in between them.

What surprised you about your birth?

It last longer than I expected and I didn't progress at all until I had my water broken.

Mama Natural helped prepare with breathing and pain relief techniques and to know what to realistically expect during labor.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Having my husband squeeze my hips during contractions as I swayed and leaned against a wall or couch. I ended up getting an epidural late Thursday night because I was so exhausted and in constant pain.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I had en epidural and was in bed for delivery.

How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?

It was so magical to hold my baby after my husband delivered her. She was perfect, and I felt so empowered to have created and birthed her.

How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?

Mama Natural helped prepare with breathing and pain relief techniques and to know what to realistically expect during labor.