-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
After 3 days of early labor (with contractions!) I was at my wits end. But out of nowhere the contractions got insane and it felt exactly like the pain of my first baby. I started timing them and sure enough, they had a pattern and were getting more and more intense.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I wanted a water birth and did most of my labor (all 4 hours of it) in the tub but as I was crowning, I couldn't get into the proper position and I kept tensing up. My midwife moved me to the bed and it took 3 people to hold me down because of the pain.
-
20160814_214326
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Realizing that birth is a natural process and it's supposed to hurt! Telling myself that helped to get in the right head space for me to literally push through the pain.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
It was only 4 hours long!
-
Give it a try at least. It's not fun nor easy and can be scary and frustrating but keep the course. It's so worth it.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing and the hot water from the tub helped so much.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
On the bed sitting up.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
There are no words except glorious.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Give it a try at least. It's not fun nor easy and can be scary and frustrating but keep the course. It's so worth it.
