Taking A Birthing Class Helped Erin During Her Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

When we got home from church around 12:30 pm

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Going natural wasn't that hard. Getting everyone on board with my plan to deliver at home was the hard part.

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

I took a birthing class to learn natural pain management techniques. I also prepared spiritually by reading and writing down scriptures from the Bible that I thought would help me get through the labor process.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised by how much more quickly my second baby came into the world. I had a feeling it would be quicker than the first, but didn't expect it to happen as fast as it did.

I felt completely overwhelmed with joy, love, and thankfulness when holding my baby for the first time. I was completed amazed holding that beautiful, perfect little boy that God chose to be my son.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Breathing through the contractions was very helpful with pain relief, but listening to worship music and praying between contractions helped me the most.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I ended up delivering laying down on my side in my bed at home.

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

I felt completely overwhelmed with joy, love, and thankfulness when holding my baby for the first time. I was completed amazed holding that beautiful, perfect little boy that God chose to be my son.

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

Having a great support system is so important if you want to have a natural labor and delivery. Support from family/friends, your spouse, a doula, and a midwife makes all the difference in the world. When you are surrounded by people who support you and believe in you, it makes you believe in yourself as well!