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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was in labor right before my midwife showed up I had some bloody show. I had been technically 'in labor' since 4 am but things got really intense when she came and checked me at 5 cm. It was then that I got in the tub and realized my baby was really coming that day!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
During transition before pushing was very difficult to not push even when you feel the strong urge. Not knowing when the end is coming but knowing you're close.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Preparing for this labor I colored adult coloring pages with bible verses on them and tried to picture how I wanted my birth to go. I imagined my baby girl and how she would look right after she was born. This helped me so much.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The most surprising thing was how fast it went. Being my 4th baby I knew it would be quick but from active labor until she was born was less than two hours. I was happy it was over so quick!
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Plan from the beginning! You think you have so much time until the day comes and it's over so fast. Talk to other moms that have done natural and don't put yourself in a position to get pain medication if you don't want it. Do a birth center or home so you don't give in. This was my biggest benefit. If I was in the hospital I know I would have caved and wanted some pain relief. But I chose home because I trusted my strength and knew I could do it without it and I did! And you can too!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I walked a lot in early labor just around the house. I picked up the house to keep my mind occupied. During active labor I couldn't have made it through natural without the water and being able to move around however I felt most comfortable.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered upright on my knees.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was amazing. Knowing she was here and it was over was so relieving.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Plan from the beginning! You think you have so much time until the day comes and it's over so fast. Talk to other moms that have done natural and don't put yourself in a position to get pain medication if you don't want it. Do a birth center or home birth so you don't give in. This was my biggest benefit. If I was in the hospital I know I would have caved and wanted some pain relief. But I chose home because I trusted my strength and knew I could do it without it and I did! And you can too!
