I was stuck at 1 cm and having irregular contractions for about 16 hours. Finally I woke up from a nap to my water breaking and stong contractions 3 mins apart. When we arrived at the hospital I was at 5 cm. within an hour and a half I was at 9.5 cm! I laboured on the toilet as I had back labour and it was the only thing that took the pressure off. It felt like the baby was going to come out if my bum!! I pushed for an hour & 40 mins but listened to my body and pushed only with the contractions. I focused on my breathing and getting through 1 contraction at a time and kept repeating positive affirmations in my head. I wouldn't let me husband touch me (poor guy!). No epidural, no drugs, no tears...the nurses and doctor were so encouraging & supportive. I told them I did not want to labour or deliver on my back and they gave me plenty of other options and continually told me how strong I was. It was like something totally took over me and my body. After only 4.5 hours in total our beautiful baby girl was in our arms! It was a truly amazing & empowering experience!