-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I am not sure when I realized, because my water was broken by the doctor.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not much. I mean I wanted it all natural, no medication at all but because of high blood pressure and protein in my urine I had to be put on pitocin and Magnesium.
-
Baby
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I kept telling myself that it was all about how I thought about it. If I thought it was going to be hard, then it was going to be hard. I learned to control my breathing and tell myself that everything was going to be ok, and that my body could do what it was meant to do.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
No one told me how much blood and afterbirth would actually come out!
I was surprised that I couldn't have the birth the way I wanted. I wanted all natural with no medicine involved. I will look for a midwife for my next child. Because I had protein in my urine, my doctor was worried I would have preclampsia so he put me on pitocin to speed up the process but then he was worried about my high blood pressure would give me seizures so he put me on magnesium to slow things down. So I had these two working against each other, one speeding up the process and one slowing it down.
Also I was able to do childbirth without pain medication. All I had to do was tell myself I could do it!
-
Don't be worried to tell your doctor that you want something different. It's your birth you should be able to do what you want.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Just breathing and I really enjoyed leaning on my husband. I really think that a birthing ball helped me to relax and get my hips open and in position.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
The position that most doctors make you lay in. On my back with my legs pushed way back. It was very uncomfortable for me and not the way that I imagined.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was the best thing that ever happen to me. I couldn't believe that my body was able to make something so wonderful as a baby. It was a miracle!
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it!!!!! Our bodies were meant to do this kind of thing. Just relax, tell yourself to remain calm and let your body do the work. Don't be worried to tell your doctor that you want something different. It's your birth you should be able to do what you want.
