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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I started having strong contractions in early labor overnight into the morning. They were definitely NOT Braxton Hicks, that is for sure! They were spread out enough though so I knew I was not in active labor yet. We had a doctor's appointment that morning anyways for an ultrasound and a non-stress test and I found out that I was already 4CM dilated! Woohoo!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most difficult part for me was remembering that I had control even though it didn't feel like it and to not panic and trusting my circle of support: my partner and husband, both of my doulas and my medical team at the hospital! I also had a hard time trusting myself that I would advocate for myself and my baby and communicate clearly and effectively while I was in so much pain. However, I did amazing and am very proud of how I was able to communicate and breathe through the pain. My husband supported me when I started panicking during transition and reminded me to breathe slowly and reassured me that everything was okay.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Communicating about the birthing process and my wants and needs with my husband throughout my pregnancy, as well as having doulas supporting me though my pregnancy, labor and delivery. Prenatal yoga was also useful for me during my first pregnancy/labor/delivery! Lastly, learning about the stages of labor and all of the different pain management techniques was very helpful; knowing my options and also being informed about what the hospital had available (i.e. the hospital I delivered at has one room with a giant bathtub that you can request when you check-in)!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quickly this baby came! I checked in at the hospital at 11am and she was born at 1:43pm! As my husband said, I shot her out like a rocket!
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My husband supported me when I started panicking during transition and reminded me to breathe slowly and reassured me that everything was okay.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Before transition, swaying my hips standing up in the 8th grade slow dance with my husband. Then I laid down to rest on my side with a large peanut shaped ball between my legs to keep my hips open. I also loved holding my husband's hand and using the hand messages in my other hand for pain management. We also had essential oils diffusing and music playing in the background.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back because the baby was coming so fast!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
AMAZING, and I felt present and can remember it very clearly!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Make sure that you have a strong and trustworthy circle of support with you who know your wants and needs for your birthing process and journey, so if you are unable to communicate, they already know all of the details and you can trust that they will take care of you and your baby as well!
