natural labor

[mommyofaria]

This question is for all the women who had a completely natural birth....how did you cope.with the pain? What were some techniques that really worked for you? Or somethin you would like to share? This is my first pregnancy and I really really wanna try to go completely natural...so I'm trying to prepare now...thank you :)

[sorenr]

I used gas and air, it helped a lot with breathing as you have to take long, deep breaths to get the benefit and so it stops you from hyperventilating. In all honesty my body dealt with the pain, my mind went elsewhere, it is very hard to describe, but it is such a natural process that your body does all the work, this sounds weird but I felt like it was very primal, I grunted with the pain rather than the noises you might normally expect to hear when you are sore. It was the best experience of my life and nervous as I am of going through it again, I also cant wait, I really hope it all goes as well for me this time too, my last delivery was 5yrs ago so I suppose it might be a little rose tinted. I'll be able to let you know soon as I'm 40+3 as it is so it wont be long for me now till I'm doing it again!

[Spiket77]

No, it isn't too late. Most women don't take them till the third tri and you just started the third. It depends on what classes you take but some are weeks long so you should get signed up now. If for some reason the class schedule doesn't work for you, inquire about a private class. I do private classes a lot. They cost a little more but are usually condensed and in the privacy of your own home. I did that with my first and it was great to be in my own living room. If you can't afford classes, check with your local health department. Most offer classes.

[mommyofaria]

Oh thank you so much.... And I'm 26 weeks is it too late to start birthing classes?

[Spiket77]

As a childbirth educator, I have to recommend education via classes! The more you prepare the more likely you will be able to have a natural unmedicated birth experience. Research different natural birthing techniques and choose one(s) that resonate with your personality and your true self. The more you know the more your fears and anxiety will disappear.

But to address your question more specifically... I found water to be soothing during labor. Moving around helped too. Rocking, swaying, bouncing on a birthing ball, walking...anything but lying on my back. When I laid down I was very uncomfortable. Vocalizing in low tones kept me focused. I used relaxation techniques from both Bradley method and Hypnobirthing. Remember that just because one method works well for one woman doesn't mean it will be what soothes you during labor. The more tools you have to work with...the better. Good luck to you!