Learning The Breathing Techniques And Mama Natural Birthing Class Helped Michaela Achieve Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I first realized I was in labor after an NST we did at 41 weeks and 2 days, I was sent from the birth center to the hospital to be monitored for a few hours because my baby’s heart rate was elevated. As soon as they strapped on the monitor we saw the contractions and just a few minutes later I started feeling them. I was discharged back to the birth centers a few hours later.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging thing about going natural was accepting I had to relinquish control and let my body move at its own pace. I was in pain and I just had to ride it out with no end in sight.

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

Learning the breathing techniques helped give me something to focus on throughout the contractions. Breathing was one of the few things my body was doing that I had control over and I was going to make it count.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised how much of a mental battle it was to make it through natural childbirth. I had to remind myself over and over why I was doing this and that there was no turning back because this was what was best for me and my baby.

The Mama Natural Birth Class empowered me with the knowledge of why I was doing what I was doing. I learned what my body was doing and why it was so important to let my body do it the way it was designed to. That helped me stay strong through labor and turn down interventions.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The shower was my best friend for pain relief. The tub was helpful when it was time to push, but up until then, the shower felt great on my back and stomach during contractions.

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

Holding my baby for the first time was the most relieving feeling in the world. She was perfect and not phased at all by the 12 hours of labor that had just rocked my world. I will never forget how it felt when she was put in my arms and she looked in my eye.

What did you name your baby, and why?

Her name is Adeline Grace. Grace is a family name and Adeline means noble. She is our noble girl.

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

The Mama Natural Birth Class empowered me with the knowledge of why I was doing what I was doing. I learned what my body was doing and why it was so important to let my body do it the way it was designed to. That helped me stay strong through labor and turn down interventions.