How many watch birthing videos?

Question

I am 16 weeks right now and I've always had this urge to really experience natural labor and the birth of my child. I'm nervous but Any time I watch videos of other people it does not phase me. I know it's going to be a pain I can't prepare for but I like seeing other women's techniques for working through the pain and pushing. Was there anything that you found helped? Any technique You used during labor that helped or a way your husband or partner helped?

Answer

I'm a nurse working a rotation on a labour and post-partum floor and from what I've experienced so far I think it seriously varies per person! Moms who come in determined to go all natural are usually quite successful because of their determination. I think it's a personal experience that really only you will be able to judge when you are feeling the pain yourself.

One big thing is to let gravity help you, so don't stay laying in bed even when it hurts like hell! Walking, squatting or bouncing on a ball are all great ways to let gravity assist you in bringing that baby down.

Our bodies are made for this, literally! I think it's life's greatest challenge and I am so excited to finally get to experience it, all natural (hopefully). There is no shame in using what is available to you though, whether it be drugs or other methods!

Answer

Honestly, what helped me most was reading Ina Mays guide to childbirth. I also spent time making positive affirmation cards for while I was in labour. I practiced some hypnosis/meditation and just generally trusted my body.

Answer

Look into hiring a doula! They are absolutely wonderful and have many techniques and tips to help you through a natural labor.

Answer

(Continued: Part 2)
The best preparation you can do for yourself now is making up your mind that this is what you want to do. Understand that it will be painful, but you can get through it! It's so rewarding and empowering once you get through it because YOU accomplished it! I wish you and your baby the best of luck!

Answer

What helped me was preparing myself for the pain that was going to be inevitable and accepting that pain. I made up my mind as soon as I found out I was pregnant that I wanted a natural birth. I wanted a water birth to labor in and ease into the pain, but sadly the hospital refused to move me to the room with the birthing pool because I wasn't 10 cm dilated (who the HELL wants to move anywhere when they're 10cm dilated with full blown double peaked contractions?!)
My labor was very quick and VERY intense. It was only 3 hours and I pushed for 2 hours.
After what felt like forever, my contractions started to double peak and it felt like there was no time in between for me to even catch my breath. I was really upset because I felt like I'd hit my limit and I was disappointed because I really wanted a natural birth. I held on for as long as I could but I finally asked for pain medicine. They were just about to call for it but my body started pushing and my mom demanded they check me first. I was at a 10!! I made it! I was SO relieved that I didn't need to have pain medicine because I got through the worst of it.
When it came to getting through the pain, the biggest advice I have for you is to BREATHE. Don't scream, you will lose control of yourself. Keep your groaning/moaning low, almost like a growl. Take the pain and energy and redirect it into sound, make sound with your contractions almost like an "ohmm" or "oohh" to a meditation.
Moving can sometimes help too, in between contractions. I remember walking around the room, sitting on a ball, sitting in the tiny hospital bath, sitting on my bed, rocking back and forth. I had to put my hands firmly on my hips to apply counterpressure against the contractions because my hips felt like they were going to explode.
(CONTINUED)

How many watch birthing videos?

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