Singing Helped Erica During Her Unmedicated Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

After a week of light contractions, I didn’t really think anything of it, but they finally became more consistent when I was at the beach for an evening picnic.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

This was my second time giving birth unmedicated, so this is really all I know. This time, even though I gave birth only 2 days after my due date, it was challenging waiting for nature’s timing.

What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?

Giving birth during a pandemic and working remotely took a toll on my pelvis from sitting all day. It was so important and helpful that I took a 2-3 mile walk around the neighborhood each night. I had alone time with my baby to be as I watched the spring blossom into summer.

I also did prenatal yoga and chiropractic adjustments weekly, which helped prepare my body to give birth.

What surprised you about your birth?

How fast it came and how familiar it felt. I got to the hospital at about 4:30 am at 7cm dilated and my baby boy was born at 6.01 am. My body remembered the sensation and what to do, and I gave birth in the same position as I did with my first baby.

It’s so important to be informed to you can make the best possible choices every step of the way.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Singing! I remember reading a story in Ina May's book about a woman singer who uses vocal exercises as a guttural release; as a singer I found this to be a helpful and natural way to channel the sound.

I also was comfortable laboring on a birthing ball, taking a shower/bath, and having my doula rub my lower back during contractions.

How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?

An immense sigh of relief and completion.

What did you name your baby, and why?

Walker. My husband and I frequented Walker Beach in the last weeks of my pregnancy as a place of respite during hot summer days and evenings. It’s a small beach that has trees and shade and calm water. My mom joked one night “You guys like that Beach so much you should just name the baby Walker…” and we did.

What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?

It’s so important to be informed to you can make the best possible choices every step of the way.