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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had a few false alarms before my actual labor, but I new this was true labor right from the start because of the intensity of the contractions and they got worse while walking but stuck around while laying down.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Getting past my first birth experience. This was going to be my second natural home birth and my first didn't go as I had planned. Instead of dwelling on it, I used my knowledge to be even more prepared this time and prayed and trusted that it would be different this time around.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
2 things.
1) Actually practice!! I used hypnobirthing and starting at 30 weeks I listened to the relaxation technique almost daily (I did miss a few) and when it came time, I could "go deeper into relaxation instantly" which I think really helped with my progression.
2) Accept that it is painful (I know hypnobirthing doesn't agree), but knowing that relaxing is the best way for progression. I knew from my 1st birth and from watching my sisters give birth that when you think you can't do it anymore that means you're near the end and at the end I would finally get to meet my daughter!
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What surprised you about your birth?
1) That my first baby was born at 38.5 weeks naturally, but this baby waited until 41.5 weeks! You never know when they'll be ready!
2) How fast I progressed. My first labor was 21 hours. This time contractions started at midnight and when my midwife got there and checked me at 3:30 am I was already 9 cm! (Baby was born at 4:22 am).
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It's your body and birthing experience so you make it or break it. It takes time, but it's worth it.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Hypnobirthing, prayer, and having my sister there for support. My husband was there as well but having someone I was close to and had gone through a natural birth before was a tremendous help physiologically for me.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In the tub, hands and knees.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
My water broke at the very last secone of a contraction and the next contraction her head was out but her body stayed in. The next contraction she was in the water and I got to receive her myself and pulled her out of the water. As you can see from my picture it was pure joy!!!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Prepare and plan. Know what you want by doing research and truly understand what is going to happen during the birthing process. It's your body and birthing experience so you make it or break it. It takes time, but it's worth it.
