Staying Active Throughout Her Pregnancy and Maintaining As Much Mobility and Flexibility Helped Hope During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I realized I was in labor when I woke up in the middle of the night with contractions mostly in my lower back. It was 12:30 AM and the contractions were about 10 minutes apart.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I think the most challenging thing about going natural for me was being able to sit in one position in the car for the 30 minute drive to the hospital, and then sitting in triage while they monitored me for the first little bit that I was there. Once I was mobile things were much better.

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

I think the most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was staying active throughout my pregnancy and maintaining as much mobility and flexibility as I could .

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised about how quickly the birth happened. I was only in labor for seven hours, and only in the labor and delivery room for 30 minutes before pushing.

Stick with your plan! The point that you think you can't do it anymore is the point when you are almost there. I had the thought that I couldn't keep going, and the very next contraction my body started pushing on its own. Just don't give up

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Moving around helped me deal with the pain the most, in addition to the counterpressure that my husband was placing on my hips. I found it most comfortable to be leaning forward weather on my knees or leaning on to a counter .

What position did you end up delivering in?

This is my only regret, I ended up delivering in a raised position in the bed, but still on my back. I feel like the delivery would have been even easier had I stood my ground and maintained my position of leaning forward onto a counter

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

Holding my baby for the first time was absolutely incredible. The instant love that fills your heart and your whole body for this little child is undescribable

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

Stick with your plan! The point that you think you can't do it anymore is the point when you are almost there. I had the thought that I couldn't keep going, and the very next contraction my body started pushing on its own. Just don't give up