Prenatal Yoga and Daily Walks Helped Lisa During Her Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had been having contractions off and on for over a week, but I began to realize that I was "really" in labor when I went to bed on the evening of August 1st, and could not sleep because contractions were too strong. It was 9:30 pm, and I decided to take a warm bath to help me relax.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Honestly, after 3 hospital, and all medicated, births, I did have moments where I wondered if I could really do it! But being at home, where I felt safe, secure, and comfortable, and being attended to by my husband and two wonderful midwives who I felt very comfortable around, helped me to get through the painful contractions so much more easily than I had ever been able to in a hospital setting.

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

I did several things that I believe helped to make this birth experience amazing, and by far, my best. I practiced prenatal yoga, went for daily walks, did 150 squats almost everyday, ate lots of dates during the last 6 weeks, and practiced relaxation techniques. Deep breathing after contractions ended, and doing low moaning sounds through the contractions helped to keep me relaxed.

What surprised you about your birth?

This was my fourth time giving birth, and I expected it would be similar to the other three (which all lasted over 20 hours). I was amazed when I went into labor at 9:30 pm and had a baby a little over 3 hours later at 12:50 am!

You can do it!!!!!! Our bodies were made for this and you've totally got this momma!!!! My midwives taught me to treat my upcoming birth as if I were training for a marathon. To eat the right foods, to exercise and sit on the floor as often as possible to help open up my pelvis, and to practice deep breathing and relaxation. Preparing for your big delivery day ahead of time will give you the stamina and determination you will need. You and your body are amazing and your baby is amazing too! You can so do this!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Being able to freely move around and have my husband there to support me was my biggest pain relief. Keeping our lights dim and being able to hop in my tub filled with warm water was helpful too. Reminding myself to relax when the contraction was over and going into a slightly hypnotic state between contractions helped me to stay relaxed and focused, and I believe, helped labor to progress quickly.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I had planned for a water birth, but when it came time to push, I decided to give birth in a supported squat. It just felt right to me at that moment. I put my arms around my husband's neck for support ( and he could actually feel my uterus tightening against his abdomen which was pretty neat too!), and my daughter was out within two pushes. I was able to "catch" her myself and immediately brought her to my chest. I felt so empowered!

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

Words can not describe!!! Holding your baby for the first time is the most amazing feeling in the world, no matter how you choose to give birth, but I have to admit, there was something extra special to be completely unmedicated, and to deliver her in the position that felt right to me (rather than lying down in a hospital bed), and to "catch" her and pull her up to my chest myself. It was magical!!!

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

You can do it!!!!!! Our bodies were made for this and you've totally got this momma!!!! My midwives taught me to treat my upcoming birth as if I were training for a marathon. To eat the right foods, to exercise and sit on the floor as often as possible to help open up my pelvis, and to practice deep breathing and relaxation. Preparing for your big delivery day ahead of time will give you the stamina and determination you will need. You and your body are amazing and your baby is amazing too! You can so do this!