Reading Hypnobirthing, Womanly Art of Breastfeeding and Ina May's Guide to Natural Childbirth Helped Courtney During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I didn't actually! I thought I was having Braxton Hicks contractions until my water broke.
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

It was shocking at the amount of pain I had but also how I could steer my mind to think of something different
51490490588__C9672FA9-33E9-4C96-9525-55D4E179B1A9
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?

All the reading I did. From Hypnobirthing, to the Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, to Ina May's Guide to Natural childbirth
What surprised you about your birth?

How quickly I delivered from the time my water broke to delivery. 1hour and 20 minutes and only 3 pushes.
Commit. It's so worth it. Just being able to mentally function and have every single memory to keep- it's priceless
What pain relief strategies worked best?

Praying
What position did you end up delivering in?

Sitting up with my legs pushed back
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?

Amazing. Her and I were so alert and I felt wonderful.
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?

Commit. It's so worth it. Just being able to mentally function and have every single memory to keep- it's priceless

Related Stories