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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I awoke with contractions that were actually timeable and consistent - I was 40 weeks and 4 days, and it was 3 am when contractions started.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Using my own strength (I believe it was actually Christ's strength working in me) to deliver my baby - no one can do the work for you, and there is nothing to take away the inevitable pain before you meet your baby.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Prenatal yoga, reading lots of birth stories, and talking to other mamas who helped me stay sane when I was getting impatient towards the end.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quickly I moved from active labor to transition to pushing. I arrived at the hospital around 9 am, labored until 11 or so, was in transition from 11:30 on (I did this in a tub), and moved to the bed at 12:20 to push out my baby, who was born at 12:42.
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Take each contraction at a time, and think of all the other moms who have labored before you. Have a doula, and trust in God's plan for your birth.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing through each contraction is what was worked best for me through both my births. Keeping a sense of humor is always good too ?. In transition and pushing phases, cold water/ice was very soothing as I was working so hard to stay in control of my body.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my knees, leaning over the back of the hospital bed. I didn't think I would have the strength to stay on my knees, but after a few more pushes, she was out!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
So joyous, and such a relief. All the pain temporarily disappears, which is so amazing.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Take each contraction at a time, and think of all the other moms who have labored before you. Have a doula, and trust in God's plan for your birth.
