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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Contractions began early that morning but were not consistent until around 5pm. That is when we knew baby would be arriving that day.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about a natural deliver is always managing the pain, but with the awesome support of my husband and the calming environment we created for the delivery I was able to manage it wonderfully.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Prenatal yoga was amazing during this pregnancy. It helped me visualize my birth, focus on relaxation and really prepare my body for the delivery.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was shocked at how quickly it went. I have always had fast deliveries, but this one kind of came out of nowhere. My contractions never got closer than 4 minutes apart, and while they were intense, I kept doubting that I was really in active labor.
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Take classes, read books, find a prenatal yoga class, and prepare your body. The more you know about the process and your body, the better equipped you are to manage the pain and deliver your baby.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Focusing on my breathing, relaxing my body, listening to my music, and eventually the water in the birthing tub at the end.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was in a squatting position in the birthing tub.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
There really are never words. It was an incredible moment as it was when I delivered our first two. However this baby was our first home birth and the first baby I pulled out myself. That was a moment I will never forget and by far the most empowering moment I have ever experienced.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Take classes, read books, find a prenatal yoga class, and prepare your body. The more you know about the process and your body, the better equipped you are to manage the pain and deliver your baby.
