How Miranda Achieved a Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

It was May 26th, the day before my 'due' date and I had just finished my midwife appointment. At my request she swept my membranes and while eating lunch I started having mild irregular contractions. When we got home I was wondering if this was it or not and decided to take a nap. As soon as I laid down contractions started getting more intense and then I knew. No nap for me!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

There was one contraction where I shouted my code word and everything. "YELLOW!" I wanted the drugs. As soon as the contraction was over I changed my mind and managed to go the rest of the way au natural.

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

I took a natural childbirth class and watched lots and lots of videos. My Hypnobabies Come Out Baby was probably the most helpful though. I started listening to it a few days before going into labor and the visualization about your cervix opening really clicked with me. As soon as I started visualizing that I went from a 5 to a 10 in less than 30 minutes.

What surprised you about your birth?

Meconium. No one expects that. Fortunately there were no ill side effects from it and I was still able to have my water birth.

My in-laws all though I would eventually cave and get medicated. Part of what kept me going was to prove them wrong.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Both of my births were different. For this one, my first, I loved having the hot water from the shower beating on my back during the contractions. Once they let me in the tub oh my, that was heaven. It felt like the water was giving me a warm hug and helped make the contractions feel much less intense. With my second I hated all of these.. all I wanted to do was lay in bed on my side. :P

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was in a birthing tub so kinda sitting up with my legs held back.

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

There aren't words to describe it. He was so perfect looking and not nearly as big as everyone was implying due to my massive belly. His head was perfectly round and he had the longest tongue! He was a very cute newborn.

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

You can do it. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. My in-laws all though I would eventually cave and get medicated. Part of what kept me going was to prove them wrong. The pain is only temporary and the natural high at the end is so worth it.