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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was admitted to the hospital at 41 weeks for an induction after 3-4 weeks of prodromal labor. I was 4 cm when I arrived (changed from 2 cm a couple weeks earlier) so we made the decision to break my water and then walk. After 3 hours regular strong contractions started spontaneously and I knew this was it!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Although my birth team was very supportive of my decision to avoid as many interventions as possible, they were not as familiar with the natural birthing process! I started to go through transition but was still just 7 cm - when I felt like it was time to push, I was only 8 cm. I didn't trust myself because I had never delivered naturally before and my nurse didn't either - but my body knew what it was doing and even without me trying to push, the baby was crowning with the very next contraction after I felt like I HAD to push!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I spent a lot of time reflecting on my previous labor where I had tried to deliver naturally but failed. I came up with a longer list of strategies to help me cope with the pain. Also, 4 weeks of prodromal labor gave me plenty of time to practice relaxing through contractions!!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quickly I went from transition to holding my baby!!
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Spend a lot of time mentally preparing for labor. Practice relaxing as often as possible beforehand.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Vocalizing through contractions, closing my eyes and relaxing as much as possible through contractions. I also was able to labor in the tub which was extremely helpful!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back - my nurse was trying to hook me up to the monitor!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing!! A huge relief!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Spend a lot of time mentally preparing for labor. Practice relaxing as often as possible beforehand.
