-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I kept having to go use the facilities during the night and I felt increased tightenings in the belly area.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The negative nellies around me that kept insisting to share their horror stories with me.
-
20140517_192344
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The hypnobirthing course I did made me feel really empowered.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
That an old wrist injury played up, making it harder to use my arms for support. Because of this I went from having my dream home birth to having an amazing water birth in the local birth center.
-
Prepare, prepare, prepare! Come up with a plan, but be flexible about it.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing and water.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
On hands and knees. (Best position for big baby is it turns out - hooray for instinct)
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
A bit weird, because the vernix made her really slippery and I didn't want to drop her. Luckily hubby and midwives were there to help!
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Prepare, prepare, prepare! Come up with a plan, but be flexible about it. Most of all have a caregiver that respects your desire to have a natural approach to your birth.
