Randi, Student Midwife's, Transfer to Hospital

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I woke up at 4am on my due date having contractions every 15 minutes. They felt different than anything else I had felt, I just knew.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Realizing it wasn't going to happen naturally. We were planning a home birth. I knew in my gut something was not right with her position. I had stayed at 8.5 cm for 2 hrs and started to develop a cervical lip. I knew what I needed was an epidural. That was going to be my best chance at a vaginal birth. I'm a student midwife so admitting to myself in labor that transporting in transition to the hospital was what's best, was hard. But in the end it was what was best for my baby. I ended up pushing for 3.5 hrs and they used the vacuum to finally deliver her. She was severely asynclitic (baby's head is tipped towards one shoulder).

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

Hypnobirthing

What surprised you about your birth?

How much hard work it was. I've seen hundreds of woman give birth naturally and they make it look effortless. My birth was by know means effortless.

I'm a student midwife so admitting to myself in labor that transporting during transition to the hospital was what's best, was hard.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

For me the shower was my happy place.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Flat on my back :(

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

It was the most amazing feeling. When I felt her leave my body I scream " give me my baby!" I just couldn't believe she was here. It was instant love.

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

Go with your gut, listen to your body and your instinct. They will always be right. They were for me.