How Lori was Surprised by the Nurse's Reaction to Natural Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

Funny thing, it was Friday night and we were at our friend's house playing a board game. I kept saying, "Jeez, my lower back hurts." So they got me pillows and propped me up in the chair. A little while later I said, "It's like they're coming and going." My friend who had given birth twice said, "Um, you're in labor!"

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Making sure that the hospital and staff respected my wishes. I had quite the birth plan which included all the interventions that I did not want done to my child, and everything I did want done like immediately placing him on my bare chest. Lucky me, after all my worrying, when they wheeled me down the hall and the nurse said, "Would you like an epidural?" I said, "No, I'm doing this naturally." And she said, "So did I. We can do this!" Those were THE most comforting words I could have possibly heard.

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

Educating myself. We took an eight-week intensive natural birth class that was really helpful for my partner, and I know it helped him become more confident in supporting me. I also read a lot, including the Hypnobirthing book the week before I delivered. I'm positive being informed and empowered helped my mindset during labor and delivery.

What surprised you about your birth?

The ring of fire. Ouch! I was also surprised by the delivery of the placenta and what that entailed. Here I had visualized myself smooching on my wee one as he nursed in those first moments, which is exactly what happened, but the pain of what was going on with me and being stitched up by the midwife was more distracting that I had envisioned.

Here I had visualized myself smooching on my wee one as he nursed in those first moments, which is exactly what happened, but the pain of what was going on with me and being stitched up by the midwife was more distracting that I had envisioned.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The best pain reliever was my husband shoving his fist in my lower back, which is where all the labor pain was. And just breathing through the pain.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was propped up on my back in bed.

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

The most magical and raw experience. I remember thinking through my only six hour delivery, "Oh my goodness, the time is now, I'm going to be a mom. Eeeeee!" And when he entered the world all felt right and I instantly felt like mom. I feel very blessed for this gift, as not all women have this experience.

What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?

Believe in yourself and you can do it. Let go of fear, trust your body and your instincts. A helpful visualization for me was thinking of Native American women or slaves in the south and how they birthed in the fields without assistance. If they could do it, I can do. Women are amazing beings, this is our gift to the world, embrace it!