Taking a Hypno Birthing Class With Her Husband Helped Andrea During Her Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

Labor started at 4 am on Christmas with contractions every 8 to 10 minutes, I lost my mucus plug at 8 am. We went on with our Christmas plans with all of our hospital stuff in the car just in case. We went to two family Christmas parties. The contractions were consistent 8 minutes apart all day. They weren't that bad. I could easily breath through them. I would just shut my eyes and go into my zone for a minute. At 9 pm we went home and brought my mom with us. We went to bed- still 8 minutes apart.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I had a great team of my husband, mom, doula and midwife. My water broke 34 hours into labor and the next two hours were brutal! I was in transition for those two hours and didn't have a break between contractions. My doula noticed I started pushing and I got into a more comfortable position. 45 minutes later our baby was born.

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

I took a Hypno Birthing class with my husband. We learned to cope with contractions and understood that they werent pain, only uncomfortable. The class really helped me understand what happens during labor. We were able to go into a natural childbirth confident and without fear.

What surprised you about your birth?

I thought that I would really like quiet music and the birthing pool. When I got into the birth suite I wanted the room to be dark and quiet. I tried the birth pool for a couple contractions and wanted out. I did best laboring on the ball or standing.

I kept thinking of the affirmation "Don't give up on what you want most for what you want now". A women's body was made to deliver the baby we made. A natural delivery was the best gift I could have given myself and our baby. It is hard work, but it is the most rewarding work you will ever do.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

We used rebozo scarfs and around my hips which helped relieve discomfort with pressure. Counter pressure was my favorite!

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was laying back on my husband in a Queen bed with my Mom and my nurse helping me hold my legs up tight. I squatted for a few pushes but was too tired to deliver that way. I had a mirror to see my progress pushing which helped alot!

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

It is an indescribable feeling to hold your new baby for the first time. I instantly felt so much love for her and I was so proud of the journey that we went on together.

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

I kept thinking of the affirmation "Don't give up on what you want most for what you want now". A women's body was made to deliver the baby we made. A natural delivery was the best gift I could have given myself and our baby. It is hard work, but it is the most rewarding work you will ever do.