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When did you realize you were really in labor?
At 1:30 am when I had my first really painful contraction. Since this want my first birth I knew right away that the pain meant this was the real thing. :)
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
This time around, the stalling of labor. With my first baby labor progressed naturally (albeit slowly), but with this second baby my contractions didn't develop a pattern for a full 12 hours. A fully natural labor meant no pitocin, which dragged labor out to be even longer than with my first baby.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Stay active and prepare myself mentally. Since I had done it before, I knew I could do it again, I just had to keep telling myself that! Keeping active throughout my pregnancy definitely helped prepare me for labor and delivery too! I felt strong while I was in labor and pushing, which is a very empowering thing to feel.
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What surprised you about your birth?
That my umbilical cord broke.... again. It broke at birth with my first baby AND my second. Needless to say, I won't ever try a home birth after round 2 of a broken cord.
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It is amazing how encouraging it is to have someone tell you that you are strong and doing a great job when you are in the midst of the most difficult things in your life!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Essential oils, applying counter pressure, and deep breathing.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my knees in the birthing tub.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Wonderful! I didn't get to hold her immediately due to the cord breaking, so my husband had the first skin to skin time with her, so when she was finally in my arms I was on cloud nine!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Make sure the people who are with you during labor (your partner, doctor, midwife, doula, nurses, etc) are supportive and great at speaking life over you during labor--you will need the encouragement! It is amazing how encouraging it is to have someone tell you that you are strong and doing a great job when you are in the midst of the most difficult things in your life!
