Moving, Swimming And Continued Teaching Fitness Classes Helped Siri Achieve Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I realized I was really in labor when we were at our mandatory 41 week ultrasound to check in on baby. I had felt different contractions and in the waiting room had to walk around to deal with them.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I had 27 hour back labor so the most challenging thing was never getting any relief or rest throughout the entire labor. Oh- and the pain in my back:)

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

Move. I would swim up to 3 miles a week, walk a lot and I continued to teach my fitness classes (modified for me) until 37 weeks pregnant.

What surprised you about your birth?

How I instantly forgot the pain afterwards and how much love I felt instantly for our little girl.

You can totally do it. Get a supportive and encouraging team beside you and know your limits. Your body can and will get your baby out no matter how much you don’t believe it while you’re in labor : )

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Nothing helped with back labor but I found marching around helped a little bit.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Hands and knees.

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

Unreal.

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

You can totally do it. Get a supportive and encouraging team beside you and know your limits. Your body can and will get your baby out no matter how much you don’t believe it while you’re in labor : )