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When did you realize you were really in labor?
It took me about four hours of recurring bathroom visits, to realize I was in labor: NOT gas pains!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not knowing what to expect.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Research, research, research, and pray, pray, pray! I scoured the internet for any and all information: discussion boards, YouTube videos of every type of birth scenario, informational sites (both pro home home, and not). I purchased one of Ina May Gaskins' books, and watched as many videos with her in it, as I possibly could.
Praying to the Lord about every single thing, helped me tremendously. It allowed me to rest my care in His hands!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How peaceful, yet intense, it was. I had all back labor, too. Yet, having my husband right there with me, our sweet doula, my midwife and her team, was of great comfort. Their gentleness with me kept it peaceful. The intensity came right at the end, as I was getting SO tired. I was already fully dilated, but, no baby. After my midwife broke my water, the pushing started! Our son was out in less than 20 minutes!
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Pray without ceasing, research everything, (even what scares you: I found when I faced my fears, i was better able to prepare myself for whatever may come.), have a TRUSTWORTHY support system: folks who won't sugar coat anything, but also won't discourage you from trying to do what you believe is the best for you and your family. Ultimately, relying on the God who created you and your wee one, through it all.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Sitting on my birth ball, in between contractions, while a warm rice pack was applied to my lower back, and either my doula or husband would rub my upper back and shoulders. I also would lean over the bed, during contractions, and NOT fight against them: I would bear INTO them.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Squatting position on the floor: my husband behind me for some support, and holding onto the foot of the bed for support.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
INCREDIBLE. AMAZING. ASTONISHING. Finally, the person we never knew we had missed for so long! We'd been praying for children for a decade, and, FINALLY, our son.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Pray without ceasing, research everything, (even what scares you: I found when I faced my fears, i was better able to prepare myself for whatever may come.), have a TRUSTWORTHY support system: folks who won't sugar coat anything, but also won't discourage you from trying to do what you believe is the best for you and your family. Ultimately, relying on the God who created you and your wee one, through it all.
