Reading Inspiring Material And Preparing Herself Mentally, Spiritually, And Emotionally Helped Sydney During Her Natural Home Birth

Video Interview With Sydney

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was having contractions, but compared to my first labor which was induced the pain was so much less. I didn’t realize how far into labor I was until my water broke, and my body was pushing baby out.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Remembering to relax as much as possible between contractions, and to not push them away. Just surrendering to reminding myself I’m opening up more and more with each one.

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

Ina May Gaskin’s home birthing book gave me all the tools I needed to go into this natural. Knowing I could trust my body and inner guidance, and that the mind and body are truly one working together to create an empowering birth.

What surprised you about your birth?

Not being induced this time like my first birth, allowing baby to come when she wanted, put me in labor for roughly an hour and a half from the time I awoke to when she came out. Being able to be on my knees I let my body tell me what to do, and I only pushed 5 times after my water broke. I have also healed so much better because my placenta naturally came out.

Reading inspiring material and preparing ourselves mentally, spiritually, and emotionally is genuinely the key.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Breath is everything! I have done Wim Hof breathing exercises every day for the past 2 years so I was prepared for labor.

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

Absolute love and empowerment! It was unbelievable to be in the comfort of my own home with my family and eldest daughter by my side. To share the moment with everyone was something I will never forget.

What did you name your baby, and why?

This might sound weird to some, but in a dream, I was told to name her Raga. Though I considered other names that one stuck.

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

We have given birth naturally for thousands of years, and the body was created to make it as easy and pain free as possible. Reading inspiring material and preparing ourselves mentally, spiritually, and emotionally is genuinely the key. Remembering and knowing we were created for this!