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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My husband and I had just out our toddler to bed, when I started having some mild contractions. I'd been having them for a few days, but these were different for some reason. I said we should probably go to bed now too so that we could get some sleep just in case. An hour later my contractions were 6 minutes apart, so we texted my mom to come stay with our son and headed to the hospital. Our daughter was here 5 hours later!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not knowing how long it was going to last. If I'd known how long labor would be, I'd have a goal. I could say "I can do this for two more hours," but when you don't know, it's tough to keep on.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I ate dates daily and drank red raspberry leaf tea, I think both of those helped my speedy delivery. I also took collagen, which may be part of why I didn't tear this time. Last time I had a 2nd degree tear.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quick it was. The doctor didn't even make it. They kept telling me not to push, so I just relaxed and let her come.
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It is possible to have a natural birth at a hospital. I had planned on delivering at a midwife center, however my platelets dropped and I had to go to the hospital. Just make sure they know what you want, and have a good support person (spouse, doula, etc.) And remember there is an end in sight! You can do it!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Moving around is all I had time for, I had planned to labor in the tub but she was here before I had the chance!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was laying down, trying not to push, since they wanted a doctor present. I kept telling the nurse that I really didn't care who caught the baby, but that I needed to push! It ended up being great though since she basically cage without pushing, the contractions moved her out.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing. She was perfect. And had hair! Our son was bald, so one of the first things I said was "she has hair!"
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
It is possible to have a natural birth at a hospital. I had planned on delivering at a midwife center, however my platelets dropped and I had to go to the hospital. Just make sure they know what you want, and have a good support person (spouse, doula, etc.) And remember there is an end in sight! You can do it!
