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When did you realize you were really in labor?
It was around 9am when I realized that what I'd been feeling when I woke up to pee around 7:30am were in fact contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I think the most challenging thing about going natural is other people's willingness to go the medical intervention route! For me pain meds was never even an option so I didn't even have to stop and think about it.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
A couple of things. 1) we took a Bradley Method course with our first pregnancy which really helped set the stage for the type of pregnancy and birth I wanted. 2) exercise! And I don't mean walking on the treadmill! I mean using weights, tons of squats, dead leg lifts, keeping my abs and back strong! I did this all under the supervision of a certified trainer! It helped give me the strength and endurance I needed to make it through my labor! The trainer also helped to ensure that I was eating properly and managing my weight gain.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I did a water birth this 2nd time around and I was thrilled to experience that it really is all it is said to be! I didn't tear or need anything to help me push my baby out! It was amazing!
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Know what you want and stick to it! Find medical professionals that will help you achieve the kind of birth you want (i.e. a midwife). Only accept medical intervention when your medical professional insists it's the only option. Remind yourself that you can do it!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Shower and mental focus! This combination allowed me to mentally accept the pain and what my body was doing.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I pushed her head out in a seated, legs up position and then flipped over and pushed her shoulders out on my knees.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Know what you want and stick to it! Find medical professionals that will help you achieve the kind of birth you want (i.e. a midwife). Only accept medical intervention when your medical professional insists it's the only option. Remind yourself that you can do it!
