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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My water broke without any warning just after my husband and I finished eating dinner. We called the doctor, finished packing our bag, and went to the hospital!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
My doctor had been telling me they would go at least 24 hours before starting any interventions, and 5 hours in I felt like I was having constant contractions. I wasn't sure how I could go on for 18 more hours like that and was worried I would need medication. My nurse came to check in on us and called the doctor in to see how much I was dilated. Turns out I had been transitioning and by the time I was checked, I was fully dilated. It was already time to push!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was read Ina May's Guide to Childbirth. It helped me to gain a positive outlook on labor and delivery. I also discussed things that may be helpful with my husband, such as listening to fun music and looking at photos of our dog during contractions. We also discussed what we would like to have happen if something were to go not as planned. When things took an unexpected turn right after birth and I needed emergency surgery, we both knew my husband would take over with skin to skin and give our daughter her first bath and weight check.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The most surprising part of my birth was the timing! I was convinced I would be late and my doctor had even told me to mentally prepare to be at least a week late. My water broke four days before my EDD, and a mere six hours later my baby girl was here!
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My best piece of advice for other mamas is to have as many strategies in mind as you can, keep an open mind about how you will give birth, and stay in a positive mindset!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The pain relief strategy that worked best for me was to spend most of my labor in the tub. I also relaxed my body as much as possible during contractions when I naturally wanted to tense up. One thing my mom told me ahead of time is to remember that your body was made to give birth, and your body CAN handle the birth process because it IS handling the birth process.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering while laying down on the bed.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
We decided to wait until birth to find out the gender of our baby, so the first time holding her was right after finding out she was a 'she'! It was surreal.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
My best piece of advice for other mamas is to have as many strategies in mind as you can, keep an open mind about how you will give birth, and stay in a positive mindset!
