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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I started feeling what I thought were Braxton Hicks, a little stronger than usual, so I got out of bed to walk around the house. It didn't help, but got worse. I woke my husband up, and we timed them for about 45 mins before heading to the hospital.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
This was my 6th child, and I have had all of them natural. I guess I would say the contractions are the most challenging thing to get thru.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I was grateful I went ahead and packed my hospital stay bag, as I was due for induction that Monday morning, baby had other plans Friday night.
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What surprised you about your birth?
It was just as quick as the previous births even though this was my biggest baby.(10 pounds)
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
They let me lay on my side until the Dr got there, which for some reason made me more comfortable and I was able to breath better they the contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
As soon as they rolled me on my back and pushed my legs back the baby literally popped out.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Overwhelmed with joy. Excited to see my LO
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
I was encouraged to go natural 18 years ago with my first child, by German Drs (stationed in Germany 1999) because pain meds seem to just slow delivery down sometimes, in her opinion. I have had all 6 of my children natural, and my longest birth was 6 hours (first one) all the rest have been close to 2 hours and below that time. I think every woman should try to experience that once if she is able.
