-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I went to the doctors office at 37 weeks and 1 day. I had severe preeclampsia with my first pregnancy and was being monitored with PIH with this pregnancy. I was experiencing variable blood pressures at home over the weekend and had developed a headache so the OB sent me over to the birth center to be induced.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
When i developed preeclampsia for a second time and I had to be induced with pitocin and magnesium. If you haven't experienced it, it's quite and intense ride.
-
IMG_3899
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Staying calm and being positive.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised by how quickly it went! My first was fast for being 35 weeks pregnant and induced for severe preeclampsia and this one went even fast! I was given pitocin and later on to prevent seizures, magnesium. I did not have an epidural with my son- I waited too long. I did ask for one this time and only had 20 minutes left. I know, what a whimp! I didn't need to be superwoman and I could have just powered through it but I just didn't want to. With this birth my child was not greeted with a NICU team and was not rushed off with my husband to the NICU.
-
Don't beat yourself up if you have complications and you can't go natural.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Relaxing breathing and not tensing up.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
The standard hospital way, on my back but my head elevated.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was wonderful! I missed on holding my son right after birth because he wasn't breathing but this time I was able to hold my daughter uninterrupted for an hour. It was everything I had ever wanted and more.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Don't beat yourself up if you have complications and you can't go natural.
