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When did you realize you were really in labor?
It was tough to pinpoint. I had been at 4cm and 90% effaced and having contractions on and off for a week and a half but the Sunday before my son was born they seemed to be developing into a pattern. I called my mom and my MIL and let them know so they could make their way to town and informed my midwife that it'd probably be that night but he didn't come until Wednesday!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Keeping up stamina, by the time my son was born I had been awake for at least 42 hours then pushed for 2 and a half hours. Also, as a first time mom experiencing certain pain for the first time and not knowing what it was or how long it was going to last was kind of scary but I got through it!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I took several classes through my birth center with my husband. I think those helped a lot. In the future through I'd prepare my body physically before getting pregnant again. Build more of the muscles I'll need and really work on getting my anemia under control.
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What surprised you about your birth?
That I could do it! In the moment you feel like there's no way you can keep going, no way you can push one more time... And then you do! And before you know it your baby is here and laying on your chest.
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Prepare yourself mentally and physically a best you can and surround yourself with a positive support group (there are so many nay-sayers and people who will tell you thst you can't do it, but you can!) And finally, don't be ashamed if it doesn't go according to plan. There's no wrong way to give birth as long as mama and baby are healthy.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Making low tones through the contractions helped, holding the hands of my mother and husband, and a couple sips of wine! It really helped take the edge off of the contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I started out pushing in the tub but baby's heart rate dropped so they moved me to the bed and I delivered on my side with my team holding my legs
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
AMAZING. I was so tired but he was so beautiful I perked right back up.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Prepare yourself mentally and physically a best you can and surround yourself with a positive support group (there are so many nay-sayers and people who will tell you thst you can't do it, but you can!) And finally, don't be ashamed if it doesn't go according to plan. There's no wrong way to give birth as long as mama and baby are healthy.
