Reading Childbirth Books And Birth Stories Thru Mama Natural Website Helped Michelle During Her Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I knew when my water broke. I hadn’t had any contractions before then, and my first one came, very strong and painful, within 10 minutes. I pretty much started right into active labor. My contractions were intense, lasted about a minute, and were anywhere between 2-4 minutes apart.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I would say the fear of wondering whether I could do it was definitely challenging. Two of my coworkers recently had babies, and they intended to birth naturally but ended up getting an epidural because the pain was so intense. I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to handle the pain.

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

I read so much about natural childbirth and positive birth stories, especially in the Mama Natural book and on the website. I would make sure to walk 2 miles every day, and I listened to Genevieve’s birth affirmations while I would walk. I also ate 6 dates a day after 36 weeks and drank red raspberry leaf tea starting around 30 weeks. I couldn’t tell you what one technique worked, but the combination of everything had unbelievable results. I’m a first-time mama, and after laboring for only 4.5 hours and pushing for 10 minutes, I was holding our son in my arms.

What surprised you about your birth?

How fast it went! I had read that first-time mamas can expect a pretty long labor. My water broke at 1:45 am, and I had my baby at 6. I was also surprised that I did it! I birthed my baby naturally.

You really can do it! Our bodies were made to birth babies (even really big ones)! I think the best advice I received was to just trust your body and try not to think too much. Trust your instincts, and believe in yourself!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

As soon as I got to the birthing center, my midwife drew a bath, and I didn’t leave it. The water was just so soothing. I also had an amazing support team. My mom would push down on my lower back during each contraction, and I would look at my husband to stay grounded. I also breathed to 5 each time and said “Out” in a very low voice for each exhale to keep everything open.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was in the bathtub until the baby crowned. His shoulders were pretty wide, so I had to climb out while crowning. I ended up squatting right next to the tub when he was born.

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

It was magical and surreal. The midwife immediately handed him to me, and I was in absolute disbelief to be holding my beautiful baby boy.

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

You really can do it! Our bodies were made to birth babies (even really big ones)! I think the best advice I received was to just trust your body and try not to think too much. Trust your instincts, and believe in yourself!