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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke early in the morning to what I knew was early labor contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging aspect for me was trusting the body God gave me to accomplish the birth unassisted. I feared I wasn't strong enough, or brave enough to deliver naturally.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Prayer, a playlist of my favorite worship songs, a list of scripture verses about courage, strength, and God's provision and care, and reading lots of birthing books, and blogs (like mama natural)
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What surprised you about your birth?
How liberated it felt to accomplish something so meaningful. I was also surprised at how quickly I healed and how soon after delivery I felt normal.
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Like heaven on earth. I felt as though I had received another priceless gift. I felt a surge of protectiveness, live and adoration.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I used essential oils (lavender) to bring a sense of calm. I also listened to encouraging worship music. I even sang aloud to help with contractions. I also utilized the strategies from Ina May Gaskin's book, The Gift of Childbirth.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back! My Rowan came so quickly there was little time for optimum positioning.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Like heaven on earth. I felt as though I had received another priceless gift. I felt a surge of protectiveness, live and adoration.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Trust your body and believe in your ability to birth naturally. Also, don't beat yourself up if your birth doesn't go according to plan. Getting pitocin, or an epidural, or a c-section DOES NOT make you less of a mom. Educate yourself on your options, be flexible, and choose the path that leads to a safe healthy delivery for you and your baby. Oh- and try to enjoy every minute, it goes too quickly.
