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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was induced at 37 wks for preeclampsia. They started by inserting a pill to soften my cervix. That gave me very mild contractions for 4 hrs or so. Then they started pitocin and inserted a balloon to help me dilate. I definitely knew I was in labor after that. Lots of uncomfortable contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The pitocin made the contractions so close together. I felt like I could hardly get a break in between.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read lots of birth stories and watched tons of videos. I also chose my support team carefully.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was really afraid of being induced because I've heard so many negative things. I was really scared I'd end up with a c-section or that I wouldn't be able to handle the pain. I felt cheated out of the birth I wanted for myself and my baby. I was able to do it though. It was exhausting, hard, and painful, but it went so much faster and better than I thought it would.
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It was like nothing I've ever experienced. She was so little. We also didn't know her sex before, so that was so exciting to finally find out she was a girl. I felt so relieved that the pain and work was over.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Rocking back and forth in a tub, and swaying while holding on to someone or leaning over the bed.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Even though I had wanted to push in any position other than laying on my back, when the time came I didn't care or have enough energy to try anything out. I was able to rest between contractions, and pulled on handles on the bed while I pushed.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was like nothing I've ever experienced. She was so little. We also didn't know her sex before, so that was so exciting to finally find out she was a girl. I felt so relieved that the pain and work was over.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Read positive stories and natural birth books. Know that you can do it. It's more mental than physical. The pain won't last forever. Go with whatever feels good to you. Try not to feel like a failure if things don't go how you wanted.
