Rebecca's Quick Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

It was 3 days after my guess date, when my Braxton Hicks started to hang around a bit longer.. We had a long early labour, so I was focussing on resting up, balanced with gentle walks and on the fitball for comfort.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Due to the long early labor, I began questioning if I could really do this, as I was getting tired. We went to the hospital, discussed our concerns with the doc and midwives, and decided to get my waters broken - this was challenging for me at the time, but I felt I had made the right decision for me and my baby. By surrendering in that moment to our unique situation, I felt a surge of confidence that all would work out beautifully. Once I had my waters broken, it was only 3 short hours later our beautiful baby boy arrived, naturally.

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

We hired a beautiful doula with who we did some birth prep work with, and became really comfortable with. We also did a hypnobirthing course, which we learned some helpful techniques for labor and became really confident in researching our birth options. I found reading many different and positive birth stories very helpful.

What surprised you about your birth?

How primal and empowering it is. How raw and emotional also.

Focus on all the positive stories. Find groups, blogs etc that share positive birth stories and read one every day!!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I labored in the shower and in the labour pool which was awesome.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Kneeling on the floor!

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

Just the most awesome feeling in the world! I had no idea my heart would explode with love straight away. It just felt right.

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

Research your options for labor and birth. Share your wishes with your birth partner and health care provider as soon as possible in your pregnancy. Focus on all the positive stories. Find groups, blogs etc that share positive birth stories and read one every day!! Positive affirmations were big for me, put them around the house. Be open to the many possibilities of labour and birth - stay positive, do your research and ask lots of questions.