Relaxation And Breathing Helped Julia During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had to be induced for medical reasons (gestational hypertension... safer to induce than to stay on the meds longer). But it got real for me when they broke my waters. That's when my contractions became noticeable for me as contractions and not just normal pregnancy discomfort.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Because of my health issues this was not a truly unmedicated birth but working carefully with my doctors, we were able to manage the risks to me and the baby while keeping things as close to natural as possible. I guess that learning to know when to let go and when to stick to my natural guns is the headsets part.

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

I familiarized myself with *all* my options, discussed everything with my doctor, and made my expectations very clear. Being on the same page helped with stress and decision making.

What surprised you about your birth?

It was so fast! My last baby took 5 (!) days, including 3 hours of pushing. This one clocked in at barely 11 hours and only 9 minutes pushing.

Know your options, even be scary ones. Be open to change in your birth plan, and be open to the fact that you may labor differently than you expect. I'm a normally loquacious, loud, extra-vert, and I get quiet and extremely chill during labor. Do what works for you and what feels natural and don't feel like you have to conform to any ideas of what labor should look like.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

In general, relaxation and breathing. For the prior birth I took a hypnobabies class and it was very helpful and so I did a refresher to prepare for this birth. The relaxation techniques are very powerful and the breathing really helps. The single most helpful relaxation that I concentrated on? My jaw. It was shocking how much difference it made.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Stirrups. A lot of women find it uncomfortable but I have tried most of them and I prefer it. And at 9 minutes of pushing I don't think it slowed me down at all ;)

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

Amazing! No lie, this was an awful pregnancy. I had a lot of relief it was just over. I was actually laughing in happiness as I was pushing I was so glad. And I actually pulled her most of the way out myself.

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

Know your options, even be scary ones. Be open to change in your birth plan, and be open to the fact that you may labor differently than you expect. I'm a normally loquacious, loud, extra-vert, and I get quiet and extremely chill during labor. Do what works for you and what feels natural and don't feel like you have to conform to any ideas of what labor should look like.