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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was really in labor when my contractions were getting more intense and closer together
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about the natural birth compared to my first birth ( I used an epidural and pitocin with my first) was being able to feel how strong the contractions were at times. When neared time to push my whole body was shaking with pain.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I walked everyday for 30 minutes followed by pregnancy stretches including pelvic tilts. During labor breathing technique was the most helpful. I recommend having someone there to get in your face and help you breath and a hand( if your nice a ball) to squeeze. A nurse did that for me when it was time to pant to keep me from pushing and it was very helpful.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised at how fast everything happened for me. My kids are sixteen months are apart so I'm sure that has something to do with it. I labored at home for two hours and then at the hospital for an 1hour and a half. I was 8cm dilated when I arrived at the hospital then my water broke after the nurse checked me. The speed of my labor definitely helped me get through it without an epidural. Also the recovery was much faster this time around not a lot of pain afterwards beyond the pain of my uterus contracting (no way around that with baby no. 2).
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Holding my little girl for the first time was magical.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The pain relief strategy I used was heating pads on my back totally helped during mild contractions. I layed on my side until it was time to push.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I gave birth on sitting up with legs up bent toward my head.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding my little girl for the first time was magical.
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How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?
I think I was prepared for how to handle the pain (what to pack in my hospital bag) and knowing what to expect. Especially being told that afterbirth contractions would be a painful for moms who are not on their first birth( not a lie).
