Red Raspberry Leaf Tea, Dates And Walking Everyday Helped Chelsye Achieve Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I went into labor at home at 10:30 in the morning. I was 5 days past my due date so I was doing everything from bouncing on the ball, going for walks multiple times a day, drinking red raspberry leaf tea, doing squats, everything! I started to feel cramping and hoped they weren't Braxton Hicks because they weren't that bad to begin with!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The most challenging was the pain. I knew I wanted to have a natural birth but the pain was excruciating.

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

For my first child, my birth went fast. So I want to say eating 6 dates a day at 36 weeks and beyond and drinking red raspberry leaf tea but I have never had a birth prior to this one. I also ate very healthy throughout my pregnancy and walked almost everyday.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised at how amazing I felt after giving birth. I felt like I was in cloud 9. My son was born at 2:56 am and I didn't go to sleep until the next night. It was just an amazing feeling. I figured I would be exhausted after a natural childbirth.

Stay focused to what you really want! Do deep breathing exercises and remember there is an end to the pain. I am so happy I birthed natural. You will be so proud of yourself in the end!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Having a good support system. I wanted to labor in a tub but was in to much pain to move from the bed to the tub. My mom and boyfriend were there just to breathe with me. There was nothing else they could do but do deep breathing to remind me to keep deep breathing.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered on my back. I really wanted to stand and give birth but the pain just made me want to lay down. The plan of how you want things to go sometimes can go out the window with the small things.

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

I actually pulled my baby out myself once his shoulders were out. I just couldn't believe I created and then birthed this perfect tiny human. I was in love instantly.

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

Stay focused to what you really want! Do deep breathing exercises and remember there is an end to the pain. I am so happy I birthed natural. You will be so proud of yourself in the end!