Reading Books And Taking Childbirth Classes Helped Tiffany During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I realized I was in labor at around 1 AM, Wednesday, April 11th. I labored at home until 5 AM and headed to the Birth Center.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

For me, the most challenging part of going natural was not the pain, but rather the ability to take control of my mind to channel the pain.

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

Honestly, I read so many books, took so many classes, listened to the podcast and did so much research. Nothing truly prepared me for childbirth. I will say that listening to other women’s birth stories was the most inspiring and insightful. They helped me understand that every birth is different and they are not going to go the way you think that they will go.

What surprised you about your birth?

I went into this birth with no fear. Absolutely fearless. I felt prepared and powerful. When I arrived at the birth center I was already dilated to a 7 so I knew I was close to holding my baby. I labored and started pushing at the birth center. Around 11:10 am I had been pushing for over two hours and my sweet Olive’s heart rate had dropped to an uncomfortable rate and I was at my end. My midwife told me that we really had to go to the hospital that we had to get my baby out. She informed me that she didn’t think that I needed a cesarean that we just needed a little help from the vacuum. So, I was rushed to the hospital in the middle of pushing (never thought I would be pushing in an ambulance). Within 10 minutes of arriving at the hospital, I was holding my baby. She was 1 week past due date and weighed 5 pounds 15 ounces. I learned that my cervix is very small and my baby was so small because my placenta was abnormally small. BUT she is healthy. I am currently healing from my birth experience and fighting new fears of future pregnancies.

The most challenging part of going natural was not the pain, but rather the ability to take control of my mind to channel the pain.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

For me the birthing tub. The warm water worked miracles.

What position did you end up delivering in?

On my back in a hospital bed.

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

Amazing, pure joy. It’s amazing how something that hurts so bad stops immediately.

How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?

I really enjoyed the class. It helped me especially with positions to try during labor. I also really enjoyed the birthing videos that were attached to each class.