Hypnobirthing Practices, Prayer And Mama Natural Birth Course Helped Anna Achieve Her Natural Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had been crampy-feeling all day long, but I didn't really think it meant anything. Around 11 that evening, contractions started in full force. I decided to take a shower and see if they calmed down... they didn't!

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I was in labor for three days. My contractions started at about 2 minutes apart, so getting any rest was nearly impossible. As labor was coming to an end, I was completely exhausted!

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

I used hypnobirthing practices and focused on breathing and eliminating fear surrounding labor and birth. I went into this experience as close to fearless as I could, and I think it made all the difference. I also had an AMAZING team surrounding me - my husband, doula, midwife and an amazing L&D nurse who was also a doula!

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised by how long my labor was, but I still have a positive memory of my birth. I have had people ask me if I regretted going natural, and my answer is absolutely not. I had an incredibly positive birth experience.

I think the most important things you can do are to eliminate fear and surround yourself with a good team. I used hypnobirthing visualizations and prayer to eliminate fear. My husband and I watched the Mama Natural Birth Course, which helped him know what I needed from him during labor. I chose an amazing team of midwives who were exactly what I needed. I had an incredible doula (seriously, get one!). I also labored at a very baby-friendly hospital who did not make me fight too hard on my natural preferences.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Intense focus through hypnobirthing was extremely helpful. My husband also applied counterpressure during contractions. I did use nitrous during transition for a bit, and it helped take the edge off.

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

Like nothing I've ever felt before. I felt strong and amazed at myself and my body. I felt overwhelmed at the love I had for this tiny human that I had held inside me for 9 months. I felt so grateful for my team and my husband.

What did you name your baby, and why?

Eliezer - Eliezer was a name that my husband had wanted to use since before we even got married. It means "Faithful Servant".

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

I think the most important things you can do are to eliminate fear and surround yourself with a good team. I used hypnobirthing visualizations and prayer to eliminate fear. My husband and I watched the Mama Natural Birth Course, which helped him know what I needed from him during labor. I chose an amazing team of midwives who were exactly what I needed. I had an incredible doula (seriously, get one!). I also labored at a very baby-friendly hospital who did not make me fight too hard on my natural preferences.