Mentally Preparing Herself, Eating Healthy And Doing CrossFit Helped Jakea During Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I realized I was in labor at 3:30 in the morning on March 26. I woke up for my usual potty time, and I went to lay back down when I realized I was feeling something “different” in my back. I got back in the bed, only to feel this tightness progressing more. I calmly woke up my husband, and I told him that I wasn’t quite sure, but this could be the real deal. We got out the contraction counter, and sure enough, it was time to meet our little Boog! I took a bath, and my husband fed our goaties. Around 6:45, we headed to the hospital!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging thing about natural birth was the length of my labor. Jayton was OP (sunny side up), and we didn’t know until 20 hours into labor! So, I was in labor for 23 1/2 hours. It was worth EVERY hour! I would not change one minute of our story.

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

The most helpful thing(s) I did for childbirth are:
I spent a lot of time in prayer, and I had a lot of people praying over us.

Mentally preparing myself that no matter what I would not allow myself to get in the way of a natural birth

Remembering that you can do anything for 1 minute!

Eating healthy

CrossFit (Any exercise is great)

What surprised you about your birth?

The biggest shocker to me was how much I enjoyed pushing! It was absolutely the best part of labor. I was finally feeling productive. I knew that there was only a short time until we got to hold our sweet baby.

DO IT!! If it has been placed on your heart to go natural, then that feeling is there for a reason! Be brave and go for it! Your body was designed and created to have babies, do not be afraid. Trust the process.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

For me, the best pain relief strategy was humming through every contraction. It helped me to stay focused on getting through each contraction calmly. I stayed in a “labor zone,” a place where you are somewhat present in the moment, but also maintaining focus on doing whatever it takes to get my baby into this world. I endured a great deal of back labor, so a massage ball being pressed into my lower back felt amazing (most of the time until active labor).

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up delivering on all fours in the hospital bed. That position “just happened” naturally like the rest of my birth experience, I did not plan it. It was much easier for me to push on all fours.

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

I think surreal is the best word to describe the feeling I had the moment Dr. J placed Jayton in my arms. Immediately when he was born, all I could say was, “My Baby, My Baby!” He had finally arrived, and I could not believe he was really here. After 23 1/2 hours, I wasn’t sure when he would make his appearance into the world. I instantly loved him, and I wanted to do whatever I could to show that love. I just wanted to snuggle him forever!

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

DO IT!! If it has been placed on your heart to go natural, then that feeling is there for a reason! Be brave and go for it! Your body was designed and created to have babies, do not be afraid. Trust the process. Surround yourself with a community of supporters including your doctor and hospital (if you choose a hospital setting).