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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I thought I had been leaking fluid all day, but nothing else was happening. That night, I woke up at 1:30am to mild contractions. Those mild contractions were inconsistent all day long. Finally around 7pm, they got their acts together and got progressively stronger and longer with shorter breaks in between.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
This was my second natural childbirth, so I needed just a refresher course this time. The first time though, I couldn't get enough information. Childbirth was completely new territory, so even with all the information you can't know how it will feel until you are in labor. I think it's all a state of mind though. I was determined to see it through. My stubbornness was a huge asset to me!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The first time I took Bradley Mehod classes. I LOVED them. It was great to connect to a small community of other expecting parents, touch base weekly, and be absorbed in knowledge. My instructor was also a parent at the school I teach at and her children had been my students. My husband and I respected her and connected with her so closely that she also was our doula for both births.
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What surprised you about your birth?
Everyone said your second will come fast and early! Well she was 1 day early, but my body took it's sweet time kicking into active labor. From 1:30 am until 11:00 pm I was in early labor. Once I got into active labor though I went from active labor to baby in my arms in 3 hours! My second born is just like me. She took her sweet time getting ready to go, but once she was ready she hustled to get out the door!
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Everyone said your second will come fast and early! Well she was 1 day early, but my body took it's sweet time kicking into active labor.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Movement, movement, movement. I swayed, rocked, and bounced. I hugged my husband, had counter pressure used on my back, and hummed/breathed deeply. A warm dark room, calm supportive team members, and not being hesitant to share my needs all helped.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Both of my babies were born while I was on my hands and knees. Well, hands holding onto the back of the bed/my husband and knees. First time around the nurse asked the midwife if I was "allowed" to do that. Ha! It was perfect because it took pressure off my back and let my body naturally open.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
There are no words! No matter how long or painful or intense labor is, all of that melts away the first time your baby is in your arms. So much love! You're here! So much love!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Know what your vision is for your birth. Be your own advocate. Seek out information and people who will support your. Follow your instincts. You are in charge of your own body. Birth is like training for a championship event. Start from Day 1 in preparing yourself for this amazing life changing event! The more you put into it, the more confident you will be.
