Reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth Helped Amber During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I did not realize I was in labor until the nurse called for a wheelchair and asked me if my husband was ready to meet his son.
I was not quite to 36 weeks when I suddenly began bleeding. Contractions had been coming swiftly and consistently for a few days but it was early enough that I assumed they were Braxton Hicks. This was my 5th baby so of course I thought I'd know what I was looking for. When I began bleeding heavily I headed to the hospital worried my sweet baby was in danger. It turned out my water had broken at some point and I was in labor. It was earlier than expected so I hadn't expected to be admitted.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Going natural was a pretty easy decision. Since my water had broken and the baby was early we were not doing internal checks so I had no idea where my dilation was, I was just laboring and letting each contraction build and then release. Deep breathing was my friend.

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

I read Ina May's guide to childbirth. It was filled with stories and descriptions of labor that kept reminding me that I was safe, healthy, and made for this. I also spent a great deal of time practicing deep breathing and relaxation techniques that felt good to me. Not just what people recommended but techniques that I personally felt relaxed using.

What surprised you about your birth?

Although I did everything I could to prepare for a natural birth in the end the baby/my body had other plans. The fact that my labor began before 36 weeks meant that my son may need extra breathing, eating, and warming assistance. I was just expecting to give birth and voila baby would be on my chest nursing. After 10 hours of labor though the baby's health took a worrying turn and an emergency cesarean was needed. The nurses were loving and supportive. All stayed by me knowing that a natural birth was the goal but the safety of my son came first.

Be informed. Know your techniques, know your hospital/birth center/midwifes regulations that must be followed.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I stuck with deep breathing and changing positions.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Cesarean. Sadly I will not see my natural birth happen as this was my last baby but natural labor and pregnancy was wonderful and beautiful.

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

I was so relieved to have my son in my arms. He was small and needed very close monitoring but having him in my arms I knew he would be just fine. He is a strong baby and came home on day five without leaving my arms once.

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

The best advice I could give is to be informed. Know your techniques, know your hospital/birth center/midwifes regulations that must be followed. Know everything that you can know about what you want to do. There are many things that will be your decision but when birth leaves your planned expectations knowing your options is going to keep you feeling in charge.