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When did you realize you were really in labor?
This was tricky since I had been having prodromal labor for the entire month before he was born. I never knew if it would turn to the real thing or stall. We were out to dinner and contractions started again, but this time were a bit stronger and more painful than they had been. I knew about 10 hours later that it was real when it was too painful to talk through them.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Back labor...must I say more? :)
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Knowing the process and stages of labor were extremely helpful. I knew what was happening and what stages my body was following and it helped the sensations I was feeling to not be as scary.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I felt him enter the birth canal. I squatted at some point and felt my cervix open and immediately felt him descend.
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You can do it! It will hurt and be hard, but it doesn't last forever.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
My midwife massaged my low back. It eased the pain and sped up the process.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Sweet relief. Not only was the incredible pressure gone, but the month of prodromal labor was over and I was holding the fruit of my labor. He was perfect and I was in love. When I saw he was also posterior, I couldn't help but be amazed that I could still deliver him naturally.
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What did you name your baby, and why?
Anderson Richard. My husband's name is Andrew and Anderson means "son of Andrew".
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! It will hurt and be hard, but it doesn't last forever.
