How I gave birth without an epidural
As someone passionate about personal development, I saw my labor as a chance to test my mental and physical strength. The decision to have an epidural during labor is very personal, but more and more women are choosing alternative pain management methods and learning how to give birth without an epidural.
The Desire to Face Pain Naturally
You've probably heard the old saying, "Don't be a hero, get the epidural!"
My desire wasn't to be a hero; I was genuinely curious about how to respond when faced with the ultimate test of pain. Would I succumb and ask for the epidural, or would I find the inner strength to persevere?
Around the world, countless women endure labour without the option of medical interventions. They rely solely on the natural power of their bodies.
So, why can’t I? I remember vividly expressing to my OB my intention to deliver my baby naturally, without an epidural, and with minimal medical interventions. The look on my OB's face was, "Yeah..Good luck with that!"
So, of course, I had to ask her how often she delivers babies epidural-free. She said maybe 1 in 10! And some of those are because the labour progresses too quickly for an epidural, not because they chose to tough it out.
Inspired by Women Around the World
Labour was my mission, and I trained every day for it. In my quest to prepare for unmedicated labour, I took a holistic approach that encompassed physical, mental, and emotional strategies.
Educating Myself:
I delved into online Lamaze and birth preparation classes to comprehensively understand labour stages, birthing processes, and coping techniques.
Equipped with knowledge, I sought to identify potential medical interventions and explore ways to avoid them. I even did a course on pain-free labour! (it was still painful, btw)
Daily Prenatal Exercises:
Regular engagement in prenatal exercises proved indispensable in strengthening my body for the demands of labour. I highly recommend the Bloom Method app, which offers challenging birth prep classes (they are no joke).
I did their variety of classes and challenges each day of my pregnancy, and I definitely think it made all the difference in getting me physically ready.
Also, I incorporated activities such as walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and many kegels. These exercises facilitated optimal baby positioning and built up my strength and stamina for the big day.
Daily Positive Affirmations:
I consciously shielded myself from negative birth stories, understanding that it wouldn’t help my mindset.
Instead, I nurtured my mindset with empowering phrases like "My body was built to birth" "I am stronger than I think" and "Each contraction brings me closer to my baby."
Repeating these affirmations kept me focused during labour, and my doula echoed them throughout the process, providing immeasurable support.
Healthy Diet:
Maintaining a well-balanced diet throughout pregnancy was not only to nurture the baby's development but provide me with the energy and essential nutrients required for labour.
Emphasizing whole foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats was crucial. I consulted my naturopath for their suggested diet and supplements during my pregnancy.
I researched the benefits of pregnancy teas that were known to tone the uterus and facilitate efficient contractions.
It's essential to conduct personal research and consult with your physician regarding these options. Additionally, I incorporated dates into my diet towards the end of pregnancy.
Hypnobirthing & Breathing Exercises:
I immersed myself in resources and watched numerous YouTube videos to familiarize myself with hypnobirthing.
These techniques, centered on relaxation and self-hypnosis, became invaluable in managing pain during labour.
Through visualization, deep breathing, and mindfulness, I cultivated a state of calmness and focus.
Every morning, I listened to guided audio recordings to center and relax myself in preparation for labour.
I also dedicated time to learn and practice various breathing techniques tailored to each phase of labour, which proved indispensable in navigating my birthing journey.
One of my favorite channels was Bridget Teyler’s who had great videos on how to breath at the different stages of labour.
Mental Preparation:
Equally vital as physical readiness was my mental preparation for labour. One technique I embraced was the "Ice Cube Exercise."
It involved holding an ice cube in my hand for increasing durations, simulating the intensity of contractions while focusing on my breath as a source of strength.
This exercise is meant to build mental resilience, to prime me to manage the sensations of pain during labour. Additionally, visualization played a powerful role, allowing me to create a mental image of my ideal birth experience.
Through my imagination, I crafted positive and empowering narratives for each stage of labour.
Perineal Massage:
As my due date drew nearer, I performed gentle perineal massages with natural oils.
Though it can feel awkward trying to reach around your big belly, this practice is aimed to enhance elasticity and reduce the risk of tearing during delivery. I believe it contributed to my positive birth experience.
Pregnancy Support Team:
Recognizing the significance of a support network throughout pregnancy and labour, I pulled together a team to support me in my physical well-being.
Regular visits to an acupuncturist, chiropractor, and massage therapist during the second half of my pregnancy provided invaluable care and support.
Doula:
And last but certainly not least, my doula Eevon from Your Downtown Doula. She assumed the most vital role in guiding me through unmedicated labour.
If you do nothing else, get an experienced doula. I wholeheartedly believe that every individual giving birth, regardless of the presence of a partner, can benefit immensely from the unwavering presence and expertise of a doula.
She was my voice when I couldn’t speak through the pain. She was my cheerleader and voice of reason when I couldn’t think straight.
And she knew exactly where to counterpressure during active labour for hours! I am so grateful I chose to have a doula with me.
To Sum Up
Now, let me level with you… This is not for everyone. And while I meticulously trained for my unmedicated labour, I also knew that once labour starts, a lot will be out of my control.
The process may not go the way I want, the baby may not be in the position I want, so as much as I wanted to have an unmedicated, low intervention labour, I also knew I needed to be open and embrace going with the flow.
I was fortunate to have the labour experience I wanted, but not all of us are so lucky. I was one in 10 and I am proud of that.
-Reema
If you're a choice mom seeking support during your pregnancy, I invite you to visit my website for more information about my coaching service here
But if you're ready to explore whether coaching is right for you, book a free consult today. Together, we can navigate this process and ensure you have the guidance and support you need to make confident choices. Because no woman needs to go through this process alone.
