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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I knew I was in labor when contractions started after taking caster oil to get it going. I had already been 7 cm dilated for over 2 weeks.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging part for me was knowing the pain I felt with my first.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I wrote out 20 cards of scriptures and positive affirmations. I also had freezer meals prepared, a baby sitter lined up, and bags packed for weeks before hand.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The most surprising thing about my birth was how different it was than my hospital birth with my first. With my first I had to get pitocin, but didn't get an epidural, and contractions were terrible just like I thought they would be. This time around the contractions weren't even painful, just uncomfortable, until they broke my water... After they broke my water, she was out in 14 minutes! Since it was so fast, I wasn't exhausted. I felt amazing! I was able to go home and sleep in my own bed just 4 hours later and felt pretty much completely healed after 2 weeks. Natural and at the birth center is the only way I'll go from now on. I already can't wait til next time!
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It's so worth it! Our bodies were built to do this. The pain really does go away. We need to build a community of courageous strong women and stop feeding each others fear of natural birth. We can do this!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Staying calm and having my husband giving counter pressure on my hips worked the best for pain relief.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered in a squat position in the water. It's the only position I had time to get in since she came so fast. I barely made it into the water before she appeared.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
At first I was in shock that she came so fast with virtually no pain. Then I was just in love and never wanted to put her down.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
It's so worth it! Our bodies were built to do this. The pain really does go away. We need to build a community of courageous strong women and stop feeding each others fear of natural birth. We can do this!
