Telling Herself "I can do this!" Helped Megan During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had cramps and spotting all day long, but I waited until I started having regular contractions before getting ready to head to the hospital. By the time I felt I was ready, my contractions were so strong and so close together that I thought I wouldn't make it to the hospital. Luckily I made it just in time.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The pain is something that you just can't ignore, but I have had four other natural births so I just kept reminding myself that I knew I could do it. My main worry during this labor was that the doctor wouldn't make it in time.

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

I researched any questions I had, and just kept telling myself "I can do this!"

What surprised you about your birth?

I was really surprised at how quickly my contractions went from five minutes apart to two minutes apart. It was actually scary, because my plan was to head to the hospital when they were coming every five minutes but by the time I was heading out the door, they were so strong and so close together.

You can do it. That is the typical thing to say, I know. But it's true. If it is something you really want to do, then you can do it. Have a great support person (very important) and keep reminding yourself that you can do it and that it's all worth it. Talking to other women who have gone natural can be inspiring. Women are made for this...You will feel so empowered at the end!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

The nurses always say to breathe steadily, and I've read over and over that it works for most women. That just doesn't work for me. I feel like I can't breathe while I'm in labor. I just squeeze my partner's hand and listen to everyone telling me I'm doing a good job, and that got me through it each time.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I was on my back.

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

It was such a relief. I felt such a connection to him right away.

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

You can do it. That is the typical thing to say, I know. But it's true. If it is something you really want to do, then you can do it. Have a great support person (very important) and keep reminding yourself that you can do it and that it's all worth it. Talking to other women who have gone natural can be inspiring. Women are made for this...You will feel so empowered at the end!