Kelsey's Successful Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I was induced because I was late and my cervix has still not dilated. My son was also pretty large.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The pain was one thing but I have a tendency to start throwing up when I am in a lot of pain. I was not able to go natural because I started throwing up and the thought of pushing and throwing up did not sound great.

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

No matter what happened, whether I was able to go natural or if there were some complications and I had to do a C-Section in the end I would have my son in my arms.

What surprised you about your birth?

My cervix did not want to open up. But when I finally got the epidural 1.5 days after starting to be induced I went from 3cm to him in the birth canal in about an hour and a half. That was pretty amazing. I also never had regular contractions even with pitocin. It took a couple hours of pushing to get him out mostly because I would have weak contractions and we had to wait for the stronger ones to push.

Also, pushing was a lot harder then I thought it was going to be! Pushing was rough and I definitely needed my nurse to coach me a little bit.

It was amazing! I couldn't believe this little human had just come out of me!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I would try to go to a calm spot in my head. But eventually I had to do the epidural so I didnt throw up on everyone.

What position did you end up delivering in?

On my back with my feet in stirrups.

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

It was amazing! I couldn't believe this little human had just come out of me!

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

I think a lot of it was a mental thing for me. I went in thinking I would try to go natural but I wasn't totally opposed to pain meds. I think the more adamant you are about going natural the more likely it will happen. I think the first time around for most women is a lot harder to because your body is trying to figure out how to do this at the same time. My next one I think will be easier, and I think I am more prepared for what is going to happen. I will be more adamant about going natural.