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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I didn't realize I was actually in labor until my contractions got intense and my water broke! After that I knew I should leave for the hospital immediately.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going natural was not knowing when the pain would be over. I was scared of pushing with out an epidural or pain medication but the relief from the contractions when pushing made me realize the worst part was over.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I wish I prepared more and had taken a child birth class. I luckily figured out how to push correctly quickly but didn't realize that I wouldn't know how naturally. I was happy I had read a lot of books and watched live births though. I knew when they gave me an oxygen mask that my daughters heart was dropping and was able to take a couple deep breaths to get it back to normal.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised how fast it went! Everyone tells you your first birth lasts long and that you won't deliver early. Every book I read told me it won't be like in the movies where your water breaks and you almost don't make it to the hospital in time but that's exactly what happened to me!
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My advice on going natural would be to not fight the contractions. Take deep breaths through out them and in between and know that it will all be over soon.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The best pain relief was taking deep breaths and pushing!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered in the normal hospital position where I was in the hospital bed holding my legs back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
To hold my daughter for the first time was indescribable. I was scared, excited and in shock! I don't think I put her down for days unless a family member was holding her.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
My advice on going natural would be to not fight the contractions. Take deep breaths through out them and in between and know that it will all be over soon.
