Getting a Good Support System Helped Lacey During Her Home Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

This was my fifth birth and my third home birth. I knew I was in labor when contractions were steady and consistent for more than an hour and I had been loosing my mucus plug since that morning.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

This birth was different from the others and required more mental focus. I had steady contractions that were not letting up but didn't seem to be getting stronger. My body was tired and resting was difficult. Once my water broke and the contractions strengthened I felt the strong urges to push like I had in the past and knew it would not be long.

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

The most helpful thing for me when preparing for this birth was to have a good support system in place.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised that my labor was so long. I expected for my fifth that things would have progressed quicker.

I suggest having a good support system and being informed about all possibilities. Do plenty of research and read about natural births and talk to other moms who have done it. Be confident that your body was meant to birth and if you have no complications you can do it. It will be hard but don't give up. Don't fight against the contractions but work with them.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I used many strategies to relieve pain. Counter pressure on my low back and heat from a heating pillow helped me relieve pain. Relaxation and breathing helped me stay calm and let my body do what it needed to. I tried to visualize with each contraction that I was dilating. I used warm water from a birthing tub to help with pain and also just movement by walking around and swaying back and forth.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I thought I would deliver in the water but I didn't feel like my contractions were strong enough when I was in so I ended up delivering on a birthing stool.

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

I loved holding my baby for the first time. I felt like we accomplished something together. We each did our part and worked hard to get him here. Just feeling him and holding him on my chest was anot amazing feeling and made all the pain and hard work worth it.

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

I suggest having a good support system and being informed about all possibilities. Do plenty of research and read about natural births and talk to other moms who have done it. Be confident that your body was meant to birth and if you have no complications you can do it. It will be hard but don't give up. Don't fight against the contractions but work with them.