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When did you realize you were really in labor?
After feeling crampy all day, contractions finally began at 10 pm, but I wasn't really sure until about an hour later when they were getting closer and more intense, and I also lost some cervical fluid at that time.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The mental dialogue! I found myself thinking about how much I didn't like being in labor and questioning why on earth I decided to do it naturally... But I am so glad I did! It was an amazing experience!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Surrounding myself with a wonderful birth support team: my husband, midwife, and doula. They were so supportive and encouraging to me!
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What surprised you about your birth?
I am so surprised that I had a water birth! When the birth pool was finally ready and I got in, I pretty much decided that I would not be getting out! Prior to that, I had only been interested in laboring in the water, but not delivering, as it just didn't appeal to me. But that changed as soon as I got in the water! Partly because I just didn't want to move anymore, and also that the water took a bit of the edge off of the pain; but mostly because the feeling of buoyancy somehow made the contractions feel more tolerable.
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Surround yourself with supportive people, and trust in yourself and your body. You can do it and it will be amazing!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
For me, breathing "down" with each contraction while visualizing my cervix opening, and remembering to relax and release the tension from my body helped a lot.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering on my knees while leaning my upper body over the edge of the pool.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
The relief and joy were amazing! I was so happy to be done and so happy to finally have my baby in my arms to snuggle!!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Surround yourself with supportive people, and trust in yourself and your body. You can do it and it will be amazing!
