Watching Natural Water Birth Videos and Listening To Affirmations Helped Brie During Her Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was having contractions in the morning a week after my due date. My son Emmett and I had a dance party in hopes to encourage continued contractions however they stopped. At 2pm I headed to the gym to walk on the treadmill--as I was filling my water bottle my water broke--needless to say no walking was done at the gym that day!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Back pain was difficult this time around however it was tolerable. I couldn't quite find the "right" position however my birth team assured me that I had found a position that worked!

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

I watched natural water birth videos and listened to affirmations.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised about how quickly it went (7 hours total).

I loved the home experience. Find a practice of midwives that you feel like is a good fit and decide whether you want to deliver at a center or at home. Also I highly recommend water births as both my babies were born in water and I found the most pain relief while in the water. It was such a peaceful way welcome the babes. Also a hot water bottle for back pain! It was my saving grace!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Breathing through the contractions.

What position did you end up delivering in?

On my side in a birthing pool (actually a baby pool from Amazon $37).

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

It felt amazingly peaceful.

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

This was my 2nd natural birth-my first was at a birth center and 2nd at home. I loved the home experience. My advice is to find a practice of midwives that you feel like is a good fit and decide whether you want to deliver at a center or at home. Also I highly recommend water births as both my babies were born in water and I found the most pain relief while in the water. It was such a peaceful way welcome the babes. Also a hot water bottle for back pain! It was my saving grace!