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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was induced due to having preeclampsia .
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I had back labor as well and the closer I got to 10cm, it seemed to get more intense. Breathing slowly, staying calm, and using a heating pad helped reduce the pain.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I would say a lot of things helped me prepare for my birth. All throughout my pregnancy, I was walking 3-5x a week, I read encouraging scripture, I read positive birth stories, I listened to music, I ate dates and drank red raspberry leaf tea ( in the 3rd trimester), prayer, and my husband was very encouraging/supportive.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised by how quick my labor was for being a first-time mom. Also, it surprised me how empowering birthing a child is. You go through all this hard work and then you get a precious child out of it.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I had 2-3 rounds of pain medication through an IV, but this only seemed to help slightly. Also, I found it helpful to count my breaths in my head. I knew once I got to the 4th to 5th breath that the contraction was halfway over.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
As many people say, it is hard to put words to it. The feeling is truly amazing and you're so full of happiness.
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What did you name your baby, and why?
Our son's name is Jonathan
because we liked the biblical meaning behind it. His name means a gift from God.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
My advice is to stay calm, don't fight the contractions, make sure your husband and the hospital staff know your goals for L&D, find things that help you relax, and lastly remember that you are strong and can handle L&D. Soon you will be holding your baby/babies and it will all be behind you.
