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Natural Birth
Encouraging words and thoughts..
I have been thinking a lot lately about how I want my birth experience in July to go. DD is 17 mo and with her, I was very "open" to how it would go. I requested a room with a birthing tub because I really liked what I read about waterbirths, however, I did not rule out any medication or medical intervention. I hate to say it, but I wish I had been more focused on what I really wanted, which was a natural birth.
This time, I want so badly to deliver my baby without pain medication. I just ordered the hypnobirthing book and CD and plan on working with a doula. I am so scared that I will again give in to the pain and ask for an epidural. My will power was not strong enough last time and I afterwards I felt like I was extremely unprepared. All I really did to prepare beforehand was watch natural/water births online, read about them, and reassure myself that it was what I wanted. I never practiced anything or really focused on preparing myself for what was to come. I guess I kind of assumed it wouldn't be as painful as it was. I'm not going to lie--I was a bit fat baby. I was begging for an epidural at 3 cm dilated. I don't know if my pain was worse than others... but I thought there was no possible way I could continue on. I thought I was going to pass out or die. Looking back, I can't remember the pain exactly. I know it was excruciating, I remember shaking and feeling light-headed, but I also remember not knowing how to cope with it. I forgot everything I ever read. I tried to breathe, and it didn't work. I felt helpless.
I am hoping this next birthing experience is a lot different. I would like to ask you for any encouraging words, thoughts or advice you could give to someone like me. I am still somewhat afraid, but I am much more determined this time than I was last time. I want so badly to bring my baby into this world completely naturally. I don't want either of us to be effected by drugs. I understand sometimes there are emergency situations where they are necessary, but unless I get to that point, I don't want it.
I don't regret my experience with DD. I just feel like.... I could have done better had I been more prepared. I really appreciate anything you can offer to help me. Real-life and real-time words and experiences from real-life people really do have more meaning than just reading articles online. Thanks a bunch ladies.
This time, I want so badly to deliver my baby without pain medication. I just ordered the hypnobirthing book and CD and plan on working with a doula. I am so scared that I will again give in to the pain and ask for an epidural. My will power was not strong enough last time and I afterwards I felt like I was extremely unprepared. All I really did to prepare beforehand was watch natural/water births online, read about them, and reassure myself that it was what I wanted. I never practiced anything or really focused on preparing myself for what was to come. I guess I kind of assumed it wouldn't be as painful as it was. I'm not going to lie--I was a bit fat baby. I was begging for an epidural at 3 cm dilated. I don't know if my pain was worse than others... but I thought there was no possible way I could continue on. I thought I was going to pass out or die. Looking back, I can't remember the pain exactly. I know it was excruciating, I remember shaking and feeling light-headed, but I also remember not knowing how to cope with it. I forgot everything I ever read. I tried to breathe, and it didn't work. I felt helpless.
I am hoping this next birthing experience is a lot different. I would like to ask you for any encouraging words, thoughts or advice you could give to someone like me. I am still somewhat afraid, but I am much more determined this time than I was last time. I want so badly to bring my baby into this world completely naturally. I don't want either of us to be effected by drugs. I understand sometimes there are emergency situations where they are necessary, but unless I get to that point, I don't want it.
I don't regret my experience with DD. I just feel like.... I could have done better had I been more prepared. I really appreciate anything you can offer to help me. Real-life and real-time words and experiences from real-life people really do have more meaning than just reading articles online. Thanks a bunch ladies.
Tara
"Understanding this first, that no prophecy of scripture is made by private interpretation. For prophecy came not by the will of man at any time: but the holy men of God spoke, inspired by the Holy Ghost." Peter 2:1:20
"Understanding this first, that no prophecy of scripture is made by private interpretation. For prophecy came not by the will of man at any time: but the holy men of God spoke, inspired by the Holy Ghost." Peter 2:1:20
This discussion has been closed.
Re: Encouraging words and thoughts..
Are you able to deliver in a birth center instead of a hospital? That way an epi isn't even an option unless you're packed into a car and driven to the hospital. It might not be so tempting if you have to drive in a car to get it, kwim?
Taking a natural birth class will only increase your ability to deal with the pain and having a doula will be a constant support person to ensure you are doing everything you can to have the birth experience you want. You can do it mama- I think a lot of the pain comes from fear. At 3 cm you were probably thinking, "OMG it's only going to get worse from here and I still have 7cm to go! There's no way I can do it!" Well you can and you will
Welcome!
That's great that you are starting the Hypnobirthing journey and working with a doula! I used Hypnobirthing and had a wonderful experience. I think the key with Hypnobirthing is fully embracing its approach and lots and lots of practice. I will tell you that I wouldn't have had the experience I had without taking the class. There is so much more than just the book/CD. Does your doula teach Hypnobirthing, will she give you private classes or are there any classes in your area you can join?
As you will read in your book, Hypnobirthing is going to help you to reshape the way you view childbirth. We have been conditioned to expect childbirth to be something that is both painful and frightening. This approach works to redefine all that and helps you to see that your baby's birth day is one of excitement and joy. Hypnobirthing will teach you to breathe and relax through surges and use visualization to help your mind stay in a calm, focused state.
I can honestly say that surges while intense were not painful and I never once considered an epi even though I could have easily requested one since I had a hospital birth. I am not a tough person, I do not have a high pain tolerance and that's why I know Hypnobirthing works. I know it's hard to believe, but I am so glad my DH and I want more kids because I can't wait to do it again!
You are doing all the right things just keep reading and asking questions! Have you read "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth"? I love this book because the first half is filled with inspirational stories that make you excited to give birth.