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When did you realize you were really in labor?
In the afternoon, 4 days after my due date. Contractions went from sporadic to consistent and I started losing my mucus plug.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Mentally preparing for pushing. With my first baby, I pushed 1.5 hours and had an episiotomy so I was dreading a repeat. Thankfully, this time I pushed for about 5 minutes and didn't tear!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Prayer! And Bradley classes- getting my husband involved was crucial; I couldn't have gone natural without his support and counter pressure for my back labor. I also read what felt like hundreds of birth stories.
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What surprised you about your birth?
Transition was fast and Pushing on my hands and knees felt good and effective. I only pushed about 5 minutes and didn't tear!
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Natural birth is totally a head game. You can do it if you prepare for it mentally. Yes, it hurts, but it's temporary and pain with a purpose. A good support person- partner or doula- is also key.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Relaxing through each contraction while my husband put counter pressure on my back because I had all back labor. I also found it helpful to visualize the baby moving down and me opening up during each contraction.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I pushed on my hands and knees mostly but finished delivery on my back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Words can't describe the rush of emotions and love!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Natural birth is totally a head game. You can do it if you prepare for it mentally. Yes, it hurts, but it's temporary and pain with a purpose. A good support person- partner or doula- is also key.
