Natural Birth and Labor.... What is it like?

Question

Hi ladies. I am hoping to go all natural as possible since I'm literally allergic to everything. But I Am trying to mentally prepare myself for what it will be like. I am 22 weeks pregnant. Any stories, experience or advice is welcomed. Thanks!

Answer

Everyone's labor is completely different from the other. For instance mine was horrible lol. With that being said I'll give you advice on how to conquer YOUR labor and delivery when the time comes.

Educate yourself - read as many books, ask lots of questions, talk to your Drs, watch as many documentaries, take as many childbirth classes as you can. Knowledge is power. Do not rely on google searches.

Plan - I say this loosely because when it comes down to it plans change. Things happen so be ready for change. Have a general outline of what you want and are expecting and voice that with the Drs, nurses, hospital staff, and you SO.

Breath and trust yourself - this is important. I was terrified of labor when it was happening so I couldn't just let my body do its thing. Had I just taken a deep breath and was confident in what was happening I guarantee it'd be different.

Congrats!!!

Answer

I loved my second sons birth. I had a fully natural labour. It was intense but quick. I had a waterbirth (just) and was only pushing for 5 minutes. I didn't have any tears or have to be cut like in my first labour. 
Have faith in your body. I was very in tune with what was going on, I even remember telling myself that I was in transition because I felt like I couldn't carry on (it just seems to be what happens around 7cm 🤔) and my body started pushing without me realising I had the urge so my midwife allowed me to do what I needed. I felt so elated that I'd done it and not torn, especially as ds2 was 9lb 6oz.

Answer

Read Ina May Gaskin's guide to childbirth! She talks about how modern women are told all these horror stories and go into labor expecting to feel pain, so they do and it's exaggerated. If you go into it with a positive outlook, knowing you CAN do it, it won't be so bad.

Answer

Honestly, it depends on you and whether or not you go into natural labor. Being induced is worse than going natural, and the pain from what I've heard (I've only been induced and then emergency c-section) is ten times worse. From what my sister has said, who has gone natural with both of her pregnancies, it's a matter of mentally training yourself from beginning to end (you still have time). She also did hypnobirthing if that helps any. Take any and all classes you can and meditate often - the breathing techniques will come in handy!

Answer

I had natural accidentally. The pain meds I had for Contractions (and a fear of hospitals) triggered my biggest ever anxiety attack that lasted for hours after the meds wore off. By the time I was able to speak again to ask for pain relief, she took my hand and pulled it down to stroke my babies hair! Too late. Hurt but I did it- and within days we were planning the next. Next time I'm aiming to stick to gas and air as long as possible, skip the Pethidine and if needed go for the Epidural.

Answer

Following

Answer

It's easier without meds and the contractions are the worst part

Natural Birth and Labor.... What is it like?

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