Meeting With Her Doula Before Labor Helped Melanie Prepare More Mentally

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had been having prelabor contractions for about four days but the evening before I gave birth things really began to pick up. I was able to sleep for a bit the night but woke up early the next morning with contractions that were 2 1/2 minutes between and 30 sec long between, so it wasn't the typical pattern but I knew baby was coming! My midwife told me over the phone that I had better come in and I was 7cm dilated when I arrived at the birth center.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

I had felt fatigued leading up to this labor and in the last week of pregnancy chasing my toddler, preparing for Christmas and a move. During labor all I wanted to do was lay my head on a pillow, but my contractions were so frequent I had very little time to rest between.

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

Meeting with my doula before labor helped me prepare more mentally. Although I really just wanted to labor alone and I didn't use any of her techniques, it was just a gift to have her verbal support and encouragement. I also wrote out bible verses ahead of time which my husband read to me during labor that were really encouraging.

What surprised you about your birth?

Although I had given birth before, it was a very different experience. The first time I was in hospital and ended up with an epidural and forceps. This time I did not have that option at all. I knew I could do it but I was still surprised at how intense I was. It was a big marathon and I learned how strong I was. My husband told me after that even though I said I don't think I can do it during labor, he never had any doubt. I was pretty focused and just did what I had to do! That's empowering!

Really try to get as much rest as possible before labor. This takes a lot of diligence. There'll always be a list of things to do, but being well rested is so important! I also found it helpful knowing words are my love language, so having verses for my support team to read aloud was so encouraging!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

I basically just walked off and breathed through each contraction. I didn't want anyone to touch me. I knew from my last labor that I just need to keep moving.

What position did you end up delivering in?

I stood right until that last chance. I went up onto the bed and pushed for 17 minutes.

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

It is such ecstasy. Relief that you're done the hardest thing you'll ever do and you finally get to meet your little baby and cuddle together! It's also very surreal; after carrying your babe for so many months, he's finally here!

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

Really try to get as much rest as possible before labor. This takes a lot of diligence. There'll always be a list of things to do, but being well rested is so important! I also found it helpful knowing words are my love language, so having verses for my support team to read aloud was so encouraging!