Taking a Natural Birthing Class and Talked a Lot With Her Midwife About Her Wishes Helped Sue During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

My water broke at 3am. I was too excited to go back to sleep, which cost me later!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The exhaustion. During labor with my first baby, I had a full night's sleep. This time was a longer labor with much less rest.

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

I took a natural birthing class and talked a lot with my midwife about my wishes. She knew my wishes and worries well before I went into labor.

What surprised you about your birth?

The baby was breech. I hadn't had an ultrasound since 20 weeks into my pregnancy. Every time the midwife checked me, the baby was folded but we thought was head down. During my labor we saw some meconium and had a quick ultrasound to find out he was butt first! I'm still not sure if he was always this way or if he flipped in the last week of my pregnancy. Luckily, the baby was in a good position to still be delivered naturally. We had a wonderful veteran doctor who seemed to enjoy the challenge.

Your body is stronger than you realize. The breech birth was definitely harder than my first, head down baby. However, it was so worth it and so empowering!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Letting out low moans. I also sat on a birthing ball next to a raised bed so I could rest my head to sleep between contractions.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I had to deliver on my back with my legs up because the baby was breech. The doctor had to be able to make sure that the umbilical cord didn't get pinched off and that his chin was tucked.

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

It was such a relief! I was so happy he was healthy and safe after coming out the way he did. Then I felt a great sense of peace.

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

Your body is stronger than you realize. The breech birth was definitely harder than my first, head down baby. However, it was so worth it and so empowering!