Having Everything Set and Laid Out For Hospital Birth Helped Marissa During Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

Sunday the 19th of may I noticed an onset of mild contractions and flu like symptoms. The next day I had my obgyn appointment, I had gone from an almost 1cm to a 3.5cm in 5 days so I knew it was happening. I had him at 4:05am the 21st.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

At about 7cm dilated I lost control of the pain and my body started shaking uncontrollably and the nurse was asked to monitor baby and get fluids going as fast as possible. Which only made things worse for me as I felt like my entire natural birthing plan had gone out the window. I couldn't breath through my contractions and everyone kept telling me it was ok to get the epidural.

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

Everything had been set and laid out to birth naturally at the hospital. I had the jetted tub, the exercise ball, the back massagers (husband) and all of my supporters.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was induced with my last one, so it surprised me that I made it through a full day of labor at home by myself and although I was not able to make it through the very last hour of delivery naturally I feel extremely accomplished to have made it that far without any medication. He made it out at 8lbs 8ounces, 19.5 inches long.

Don't be upset with yourself if things don't go as planned. Not everyone can prepare themselves enough for the pain and unexpected complications some go through.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Walking helped me control my breathing and focus on helping him down into the canal further. Bracing myself and pushing down on something during each contraction helped with the pain. Not having people around you talking while you're trying to concentrate would definitely help, as I had originally had that in my plan too.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I delivered on my back, which was not part of my plan. (This part still makes me very sad)

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

The picture says it all. I cried and kept saying, I can't believe you're here now. I had had two not so early miscarriages before I became pregnant with him.

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

Don't be upset with yourself if things don't go as planned. Not everyone can prepare themselves enough for the pain and unexpected complications some go through.