-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
Woke up at midnight with contractions, couldn't fall back asleep so I decided to get up and take a hot bath to try to relax. Nothing seemed to help so at 1:38 AM I started timing contractions for the first time...and I was definitely in labor.
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The mental battle of just not knowing how it was all going to happen.
-
received_10211334756634022
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Prepare myself mentally. POSITIVE THINKING!!!
Also, I worked out pretty consistent, and even the last month or so when I couldn't work out I still did a lot of stretching!
-
What surprised you about your birth?
It lasted SO long...I thought all my preparation was going to make sure I didn't have an insanely long labor!!!
-
Stay away from negative people/conversations/stories/thoughts. Your mindset is SO important!!!
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Not letting myself lose control and go crazy. And my friend and doula, breathing with me through contractions.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
On the hospital bed (after 30 hours of completely natural birth it was decided for safety reasons I needed an epidural-- 36hours total) but 95% of the labor I did standing. Contractions were the least painful while standing. Sometimes with a half squat.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Honestly...weird/scary! Like this human I'd felt I had such a connection with for months all of a sudden was like this little person I felt like I didn't know!!! ...and just so glad labor was over!!!
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Stay away from negative people/conversations/stories/thoughts. Your mindset is SO important!!!
