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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I'd had period like pains on and off most days for about 2 weeks, and then at 40+3 I felt a strong period cramp before dinner. I was able to take a bath and go to bed, and by 1am I was woken up by another strong surge and as I stood up i lost my mucus plug. That's when I knew things were heating up.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I found going natural very easy and natural. My challenges came from people who didn't believe I could or would do it. Being a VBAC I had doubt from people from the start.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read the mama natural book, as well as hypnobirthing and calm birth. All of these materials helped me gain a better understanding of natural birth and what my body is naturally capable of. I also practiced "getting in the zone" almost every evening, with breathing, visualization, music and essential oils.
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What surprised you about your birth?
That it really was not that painful! I actually enjoyed it for the most part. And I was a little surprised that I actually did it. My first baby was a scheduled c-section due to breech position so I had never labored before.
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Believe that your body will cover all your bases. Stay relaxed and get that oxytocin flowinggggg, it's your best pain reliever!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
HOT WATER! The shower, and then the bath (this is where my babe was born). I also used heat packs, breathing techniques and used vocalizations to get through each surge
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my knees with one leg up, leaning over the edge of the bathtub
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
BEAUTIFUL. UNREAL. I went into a bit of shock afterward because I had been so in the zone my entire labor that I almost was shocked that the baby had come out so easily!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Believe that your body will cover all your bases. Stay relaxed and get that oxytocin flowinggggg, it's your best pain reliever! Practice practice practice so that your body and mind automatically know how to go into "relaxation mode" when labor begins.
