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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Unfortunately for me, I developed preeclampsia and had to be induced at 37+2. This was my 5th baby, my first two were c-sections and I was attempting my third VBA2C. Due to the higher risks associated with VBACs, induction is not ideal, but I was very set on having a natural vaginally birth and not another c-section. I went into the hospital and my OB inserted a foley balloon to start dilation. That stayed in over night and the next morning I was in labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Due to the fact that I had to be induced after having had two c-sections, I was extremely worried about complications resulting in another c-section being that my body may not be ready to deliver. However, I knew my chances of a successful vaginal birth were significantly increased by going natural as I would be able to be mobile and not confined to a bed, which helped a lot.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read a lot about my risks associated with vaginal birth after c-sections. I stayed in shape because I knew that would help with my labor and ability to deliver vaginally.
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What surprised you about your birth?
It was fast and intense! Only 3.5 hours from the start of labor to his birth. I was also surprised how my body did take over and begin to push, even when I wasn't doing it.
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Stick to your guns, don't doubt yourself - this is what you were made to do - and even if things don't turn out exactly the way you had imagined, you can still accomplish what you set out to do.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The ability to walk around, sway, and rock on my birthing ball helped a lot. My husband applied pressure to my lower back during contractions which helped alleviate some of the intense pain.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering baby on my side. After an hour of intense contractions standing and sitting, my legs were tired and I felt the need to lay down on my side. At that point, I "transitioned" and my body started pushing him out. It felt right and I didn't have the energy to move so I just hiked up my legs and pushed him out.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding my baby for the first time was the most amazing feeling. My 4th child was stillborn just 1 year and 4 days earlier so this baby was my rainbow. All the fear and anxiety from 9 stressful months of pregnancy melted away in an instant and my heart was filled with sheer joy and overwhelming love.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Stick to your guns, don't doubt yourself - this is what you were made to do - and even if things don't turn out exactly the way you had imagined, you can still accomplish what you set out to do.
