Pelvic Counter Pressure Helped Maria During Her Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had 2 days of hard prodromal and early labor, finally the night of the 2nd day my contractions changed and became a lot more intense and I lost my mucus plug.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging thing was being sent home from the birth center repeatedly. They kept telling me I'd be more comfortable at home but I wasn't. I wanted to get a room at the center and be able to use my comfort measures there but I wasn't far enough along.

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

I'm a certified childbirth educator so I know everything taught in classes already. The best thing was finding a doula and knowing I could message her anytime of day or night.

What surprised you about your birth?

It was fast, hard, intense. Very different from my first natural birth. Also my baby got stuck, and also had a mild shoulder dystocia, and was unresponsive at first. But the midwives were amazing and everything ended up more than fine!

Trust your body. Trust your midwives. Trust your support team.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I stayed in the tub the entire time, that and pelvic counter pressure during each contractions.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was on my knees for most of pushing, then turned around so midwife could help get baby's head out, then I had to stand with one foot on the side of the tub to deliver her with the shoulder dystocia.

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

Relieving - I wasn't able to hold her right away bc she was not responsive and the midwives had to work on her. Once she started crying well I was allowed to hold her and I didn't want to give her up.

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

Trust your body. Trust your midwives. Trust your support team.