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When did you realize you were really in labor?
On my due date, I was having sporadic contractions throughout the day but they became more consistent and closer together by that evening so I knew I was in labor then. I’m not one to really have Braxton Hicks contractions as I didn’t experience them my previous three labors.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing for me was to not fear the pushing stage. That has been one of the more intense times for me where I start to lose control and get very verbal (shout some curse words). This time around was much different and better, especially with the help of my doula to help keep me grounded.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I processed it a lot more with God, my husband and my doula. In other words, I talked a lot more about my desires, my fears and I really sought God to help me and provide a supernatural birth.
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What surprised you about your birth?
My baby was born en caul (in the amniotic sac) and I only had to push a few times.
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I processed it a lot more with God, my husband and my doula. In other words, I talked a lot more about my desires, my fears and I really sought God to help me and provide a supernatural birth.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Rhythmic moaning with low tones, rocking back and forth while standing and holding my husband’s hands, hitting my hand against the counter in a rhythm while sitting on the toilet and my doula pouring water on my back while I was in the tub.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In the tub on my knees
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
AMAZING! It was such an intense time of awe and gratitude that I could hold him, see him and hear him after wondering for so long what he would be like. I was so relieved that the labor was over. It’s such a peaceful time of baby bliss.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
I would highly recommend hiring a doula... a good doula will be so supportive in so many different ways. First, being educated and informed about birth and all the choices that surround it and being respected and supported no matter what you decide. Second, emotionally so you can process your fears, hopes, and concerns with no judgment. Third, physical support that will make labor a lot more manageable and enjoyable. Also, a doula helps support the mother’s partner so they know how to better support the mother and also to get some much needed breaks.
