Spending a Lot of Time Visualizing The Labor Process Helped Heather During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was having contractions on and off for four days. When I saw my doctor for my weekly exam he told me I was already at 4 centimeters dilated and 80% effaced. He sent me to the hospital to get checked in and I was given a small amount of pitocin to help make my contractions more productive. Within minutes I was in full blown labor.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

For me the biggest challenge was staying focused and calm. My daughters were in the room with me and so I wanted to make sure they were not scared and could enjoy being a part of the birth experience. Only one of my girls stayed until the actual birth of her baby brother. My oldest daughter did not like seeing mommy in any discomfort and left the room for the last ten minutes of the delivery.

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

I think there were two things that helped me most to be prepared. I spent a lot of time visualizing the labor process as I remembered from my previous deliveries and thought about how to focus on only one contraction at a time and breathe through the discomfort. I also told myself everyday that every birth experience is different and that no matter how it goes this time I know I can do it and it will be a memory unique to this baby and pregnancy.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was very surprised by how much less painful the process really is than I had remembered. By staying very calm and focusing through each contraction and resting in between I realized that while labor and delivery is difficult and comes with a lot of discomfort, it is not painful and the relief is instant the second the baby is born.
I was also surprised by how quickly he was delivered once it was time to push. He was born in less than ten minutes after only five strong pushes.

It may seem too difficult at times and other people might discourage you, but the truth is, going natural is an amazing experience. Labor does not last forever and you were made with the strength to do this. With courage and focus you will be able to have an amazing natural childbirth experience.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

For me, using a clock with a second hand that I could focus on during each contraction helped me the most. I watched the hand and counted thirty seconds to the height of the contraction and then knew the next thirty seconds would bring relief and finally rest.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered sitting up in bed pulling my knees towards me. I tried a few options but that ended up being the easiest for me.

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

Holding my son for the first time filled me with so much pure joy. Surrounded by my husband and two daughters I felt fulfilled and blessed. He completed our family and instantly fit right in.

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

It may seem too difficult at times and other people might discourage you, but the truth is, going natural is an amazing experience. Labor does not last forever and you were made with the strength to do this. With courage and focus you will be able to have an amazing natural childbirth experience.