Staying Active And Walking Everyday Helped Whitney During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was over 40 weeks and on Sunday afternoon, I got the "bloody show." It didn't feel real until later that night when contractions started.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The pain and the decisions you have to make. I felt the contractions in my hips and thighs. And when they're coming every 2-5 minutes, there isn't much time for relief. When I had be in labor for 24 hours and had dilated past 5 centimeters, I was told to mak a decision. I was becoming at risk for a C-section and an epidural might help me relax and dilate to 10 centimeters. And if it didn't help, I'd already have the epidural and would be ready for the C-section. Or keep going a bit longer. My water had already broke and something needed to be done. After crying over my options, I chose the epidural. As much as I didn't want it, I knew I couldn't go on any longer. Luckily, it helped me and I gave birth vaginally after 33 hours of labor.

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

Prepared myself for what could happen during labor. Even the scary scenarios. Also, I stayed active. Walked every day for 9 months.

What surprised you about your birth?

How naturally the instinct came to push. I just knew how to push properly, and he came out pretty quickly.

You can do it! But be prepared that your birth plan may not go the way you had planned. And whatever happens, just be proud of yourself for being pregnant and birthing a human.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Focusing on breathing...inhaling and exhaling slowly.

What position did you end up delivering in?

On my back.

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

Surreal. I was in shock that my journey was finally over and I had my baby in my arms.

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

You can do it! But be prepared that your birth plan may not go the way you had planned. And whatever happens, just be proud of yourself for being pregnant and birthing a human.