I really wanted to write this post on why I chose to experience pain and have two all natural deliveries (with no epidural) and what really led to that decision.
I wanted to write a little back story on how I came up to that decision. Brielle was my first full term baby and I knew I would most likely get an epidural with her. It was all because I literally didn’t want to be in ANY pain at all. I mean, I was 25 years old, and I knew that I couldn’t handle it (well, at least back then I thought I knew that) so I really never gave an all natural birth experience a second thought.
Brielle’s delivery that I documented here was so easy. It was exactly the way I wanted it to be (besides the major scare at the end) but overall I was laughing and enjoying the entire experience. What I didn’t like about having the epidural is the loss of control. I mean, I really never gave it a second thought that I wouldn’t be able to use to restroom (thank goodness I didn’t have to pee after I got it), or that I wouldn’t be able to shower after the delivery immediately (because y’all.. it’s just gross), or the fact that I wouldn’t be able to walk around and move during the process to get things moving a little (or a lot) faster.
So when we found out we were pregnant with Rochelle and that she was going to be a terminally ill baby, I wanted without a doubt, an all natural birth experience. Her story is here. Her birth was scary, and amazing at the same time. In just 2 1/2 hours my body did something that took HOURS with Brielle. I pushed her out and it was exhilarating, and I was SO extremely proud of myself for doing something that I was SO terrified to do.
Then comes Malachi. One major reason that I wanted to do another all natural, no epidural labor was because things went to crazy and chaotic with Rochelle’s birth, I wanted to do things differently. I didn’t know the gender of Malachi throughout the entire pregnancy and I wanted it to be a surprise to everyone. I also wanted the freedom to have my kids in the delivery room (up until birth) and to walk around on wireless monitors. I didn’t know that I would need a labor ball as well, but it was so beneficial and I am so glad I asked for one! I wanted to slow down the oxytocin (the medication used to induce labor) this go around as well (per doctors approval) and take it step by step. His birth story is here.
I think so much pressure is put on us women as we have to make a choice in the beginning and in the end as to what we are going to do during labor. If we are ok with a c-section (in case emergency happens), or if we want an epidural. Never do they offer a “pain free” delivery with modifications that fit your wants/desires. I think it’s amazing at the hospital I delivered at (DeTar North in Victoria, Tx) to listen to what I wanted and what was best for our baby on getting him out safely.
I think every single way that a child is able to survive and enter this world is a miracle, and I just applaud each and every woman who has birthed a baby via c-section, getting an epidural or going the all natural method. Each mom is amazing and I want to give you a virtual hug!
**Also note that I am also speaking to all the moms whether you are a mother by adoption, or you had a surrogate deliver your precious child.. I think the world of you women as well!**
I would LOVE to know which birth plan you chose and why! I love sharing our amazing stories and think we can definitely build this community up with encouraging positive information.
With love,
Sheridan
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