Reviewing Her Natural Childbirthing Book Helped Elisha During Her Hospital Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I began having cramping that started out every 10 minutes and gradually increased in severity and duration.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The anticipation of how this labor experience would be.

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

I reviewed my natural childbirthing book, bought an electric fan to use while in labor and hired a doula.

What surprised you about your birth?

How quickly labor progressed this time and my daughter's birth weight (9#11oz)! She came 3 days after her due date.

Educate yourself, have a plan of what you want to happen at the time of labor but also recognize that at the end of the day, a baby delivered safely and healthy is the primary goal! Your mind is a very powerful tool, use it and take labor one contraction at a time!

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Deep breathing and pressure applied to my hips as coccyx

What position did you end up delivering in?

Squatting/ on my knees

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

It was such a relief & overwhelming joy and beauty to hold her!

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

Educate yourself, have a plan of what you want to happen at the time of labor but also recognize that at the end of the day, a baby delivered safely and healthy is the primary goal! Your mind is a very powerful tool, use it and take labor one contraction at a time!