Taking Childbirth Classes, Reading Birthing Books And Hiring A Doula Helped Ashley Achieve Her Birth Center Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

When the back pain didn’t subside and going to the bathroom didn’t help, I realized these contractions were the real deal!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The pushing phase of my labor was really fast and intense - I went from 7cm dilated to my baby being born in 90 minutes! That intense time of transition and pushing was hard work and hurt a lot

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

We took Childbirth Prep classes at our birth center also read a lot of books - the Mama Natural book, Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, Pregnancy Childbirth and the Newborn - which helped my Type A personality feel prepared. We also hired a doula who was an incredible support and help through pregnancy and labor.

What surprised you about your birth?

I couldn’t believe how fast things went at the end! After a long early labor, I went from 7 cm dilated to my baby being born in 90 intense minutes. My water broke around 4:30 AM and it seemed like that was all my baby needed to make her arrival an hour later!

I was in disbelief! I couldn’t believe after all that hard work, she was finally here.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Deep breathing with low tones when breathing out; counter pressure on my back; heat on my lower back

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered standing up! It was not what I expected, but it just felt right!

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

I was in disbelief! I couldn’t believe after all that hard work, she was finally here.

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

Find a supportive team and place to deliver. I was so impressed with the Birth Center throughout my prenatal care and especially thankful for the individualized care at my birth. I had the same midwife, student midwife, and nurse with me throughout my labor and delivery. They were supportive of all of my choices and patient with my body and my baby.