Can Anyone Share Their Positive Experience Giving Birth W/o an Epidural?

Here is a link to my birth story:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&am...

I went without pain meds because I was to far along and they couldnt give me the meds in it help. But I got to say that the birth was hard but once you focused it was over quickly. The recovery was easier as well it seemed. But there again too, I was induced with my first one and had a longer labor than my last.
If I was going to do it again I would go without...

Hi A.--while I didn't make it completely through without an epidural (I got to 6 cm), I wish I would have. Once real labor started at home, it was quick! By the time I got to the hospital, I was at 6 cm with contraction 3 min. apart. I lost faith in myself and no one was there to encourage to keep trying. I think my husband was in shock because he just stared at me like he was scared to say or do anything. Once I got the drugs, everything s-l-o-w-e-d down. Then they gave me pitocin to speed it up again. How ridiculous is that? If I could do it again, I would go through it without anything--I got to 6 without it, I think I could have gone the distance. LOL!

Hi, A.. I know you've received tons of replies; it's awesome that there are so many mommas giving you some great encouragement.

I've had four c-sections, so no natural birth experiences for me. But I wanted to say that if you don't get the birth you wanted and planned for and dreamed about...you're still a momma. Your bonding and relationship with your children isn't diminished by the fact that they were brought into the world with more medical help than you initially wanted. I didn't bond less with my children, I don't love them any less and our lives aren't ruled by the way I delivered.

I felt HUGELY guilty after my first c-section, absolutely sure that I had failed. It took me a very long time to get over that. But you know what? I've brought four children into this world, including a baby whose genetic mother wasn't able to carry her herself. How is THAT a failure? I'm sad for all those weeks I felt like I wasn't a real woman. What a waste of time!

I think it's awesome that you're willing to attempt a natural delivery. You sound like you'r really preparing yourself and making sure you're ready for it. I do hope, however, that should things not go according to your plan, you don't dwell on it. Be happy in your family and with your baby. What matters most is how you mother the children.

I wish you the best of luck and a wonderful birth!

A.,

I'm a 25 year old mother of a wonderful daughter named Madison. I did not enjoy being pregnant. I was sick everyday for 9 months and in the hospital for 3 1/2 of those months. It was by far the hardest thing I ever had to experience in my life. I ended up having an emergency c section, so of course I was medicated(had no complications with the epi). When she arrived in this world, I was overjoyed with a love that only God created us to have...and I know you know what that feels like. We are fearfully and wonderfully made creatures. There are none like us. No matter what choice you make, you are not a failure nor are you less of women because you have not given natural child birth. If your baby comes natural or with the help of meds, you are still going to love him/her just the same. Hope that helps!

Yes!! I did an epi the first time and I really hated the feeling of my legs being all numb. Besides that trying to sit up in the bed right after I lost my balance and almost dropped my baby. I ended up quickly handing her to my best friend, who ended up briefly holding her before my husband did. But I digress . . .

The first time by the time I got to the hospital I was already at like an 8cm and the nurse told me I was handling the pain so well she didn't think I needed an epi. Well, the doctor came in and said "you never know; you could be pushing for hours and then you can't change your mind!" So, I took it and had the baby less than an hour later.

The 2nd time I decided to go natural and I'm so glad I did! I had two pushes and out came my beautiful 9lb pudgy boy. My recovery was so much easier and I think it was because I had more control over my muscles down there. I was able to get up and move around sooner, and I was proud of myself for doing it. I do really well during labor just breathing and watching leaves move out the window, whatever. The pushing did hurt, obviously, and I even let out a yell (and apologized to my doctor and he giggled at me and said he'd never heard a woman in labor yell before LOL)

Anyway, if I was going to have a 3rd (which we can't at this point) I would DEFINITELY choose natural, especially knowing you've had one baby before.

If you're not super narrow in the hips to a point where you had a hard time birthing last time, it sure is quicker and easier. That was my experience anyway!

People look at me like that too by the way. . ."are you nuts?" LOL I don't like taking medications so that also played into my decision.

Take care and happy birthing! :)

Chris

I did not read the other responses so I am sorry if this is duplicate info.....I had both natural-and would do it again. It does hurt at first...a lot! BUT, the way it feels when it comes out(after the shoulders pass) is pretty cool. And once it is out..the pain is gone instantly. I would not trade it for anything. Also, consider how long you were in labor with your other child. If you have long labors you might need the epidural, the extended stress on your body is not good either.

A friend of mine used a "hypno-birthing" technique for relaxation and pain relief during birth. SHe got a book early in pregnancy and did the exercises. SHe SWORE by it and had an amazing birth experience and says she would do it again without medication in a minute!!! I myself made it to 9.5 centimeters without meds and can highly suggest being off your back...walk around, sit on a birthing ball, get in the shower. You can do it!!!

A.,
I gave birth 17 months ago to my daughter and 3 1/2 years ago to my son. Both natural no drugs, no epideral. I stood for most of the labor and once I was ready the babies came out quick. It is a little painful, but the quick recovery is so worth it. I didn't need anyones help to go to the bathroom or shower or anything. I totally recommend it. I can't think of anything else to say, but if you have any questions email me.

You are not crazy at all. I gave birth to my daughter naturally. I had a little bit of pain medication in an IV. Of course it hurt but it was well worth it. So if you think you can do it, GO FOR IT!! I would highly recommend it. It was an awesome experience.

I had my babies (11 months apart) without an epidural. My first labor was 15 hours, and my second was about 5 hours. I didn't do any breathing techniques or anything special. The greatest thing about it is knowing what the reward is in the end and it will keep you going through labor. I had my mother in the delivery room with me and my husband the first time, and the second time it was just me and my husband. It was much easier with just the two of us without a bunch of people telling you to breathe, and quit screaming (lol), and everything.

I had both of my boys without epidurals. It is painful, but it's supposed to be. My second was alot easier and faster than the first. Thankfully I was blessed with two quick labor and deliveries. Go in with the mindset that you're not going to get one, and you can make it through. Good luck!

S.

A.,

I had my first child at age 40 without any pain medication. I chose that route because I felt it would be safer for both of us. I wouldn't say my doctor or husband were sincerely supportive, but I did have a doula who gave me lots of support and encouragement. My baby was turned face up, so I had a long, very painful labor, but I think it could have been a much less painful ordeal if it had been handled differently. At any rate, the moment my daughter was out, I had the MOST AMAZING flood of adrenaline and love and happiness!! It was incredible! I felt so bonded with my daughter immediately, and I had so much joy and love.

With my second pregnancy, I had a marginal cord insertion, and because of the risk of rupture, my doctor and I agreed to do a C section before I went into labor, at week 37. As it turned out, my water broke even earlier, at week 34, so I had an emergency C. It was a completely different experience (for many other reasons, as well). I can't even really compare the two, because there were other factors affecting the situation as well, but for me personally, there is no creepier feeling than being numbed by an epidural. I hope to never experience that again! I felt very disconnected from the birth experience, and because my second daughter was born early, she was whisked away immediately after because of breathing problems (she's fine now!).

Again, that experience was probably not like most C's or epidurals, but for me personally, I would much rather spend 33 hours in painful labor, with the incredible rush of joy afterwards, then have a short, pain-free (but creepy feeling) labor. That's just me!! Whatever you do, make sure you have a very supportive doctor (Baylor Dallas has some incredible docs who support natural childbirth - others will say they do, but don't really), or better - a great midwife! And consider a doula as well. The right one can give you and your husband some great emotional support. Best wishes in making your decision and in having a happy, healthy baby!

I recommend "Supernatual Childbirth" by Jackie Mize. She is a Christian woman who had children without pain medication. This is a good faith-building book with scripture to explain and encourage you.

I weigh about 115 and had 2 BIG boys naturally. My first was 9 lb. 5 oz. and the second was 9 lb. 10 oz. It was a joy! :o)

The second came quicker (they say your body "remembers" and stretches more easily).

I beleive that you CAN do it. Be prepared: practice the breathing and focusing. It really DOES help.

Prayers and blessings for the exact delivery you want. It's truly a blessing and a gift from God to deliver your child.

If I can do it, anyone can. LOL

P. <><

I gave birth to my daughter w/o anesthesia of any sort. The anesthetist was on the golf course--small hospital! If your doctor says you are built right, not too small, the baby isn't too big, etc., it shouldn't be a problem. Millions of women have done it for centuries. Since it's your second, your labor shouldn't be as long as the first, either. I enjoyed it so much, I planned right up to the end to have my second naturally, also, but she was breach. I did use some anesthesia, but was still semi-awake for some of it. I certainly do not regret it.

I have had both of my children naturally and loved every minute of it. I could not imagine feeling nothing during labor. It is the worst pain you can ever imagine and then all of it disappears when you look into the eyes of your newborn. I used alot of variations in positions till I hit transition and then it was all about breathing, focusing, and massage. I stayed off my back with my second and it made all the difference. I had a 4 hour labor with my first and a 2 hour labor with my 2nd. I was induced both times with pitocin and breaking of my waters. I would highly recomend the use of a doula as I did with my 2nd. She really helped with keeping me in the zone. I never had to worry about the nurse interfering with my focus as my doula was always right there.
I am so happy that you are wanting to experience a natural labor. I know I prepped for mine by practicing to breathe and focus and water relaxation. I think that as long as you go into the whole experience knowing it is going to hurt and you are prepared for it you can do it.

My second was all natural. We barely made it. My husband let me off at the door with a nurse (we called ahead) and had to go park the car and bring in our older daughter. By the time he made to the room our second girl was already there. He missed everything. She was quick. There was no time for epid. The 1st & 3rd girl i did do the epid. I can understand you wanting ot say you experienced the whole process. I think you shoudl try it. Study up on relaxing tech. And exercises since you don't really use them with the epid. Remember, if you have to be induce again and it runs long you can always change your mind. Some labors as you know are a few hours some are forever. Don't pressure yourself or feel guilty if you change your mind. Personally, i loved the epid. Good luck with your growing family.

Hi A.:

First of all kuddos to you for going against the grain. That says alot about you. I am a mother of 4 and all of mine were birthed naturally without drugs..by choice. I used a midwife.
You are well on your way because as you said it is about "going into it with the right mindset". You can do it. Like I said I chose to do it 4 times. Yes, you will feel the pressure but use what you learned in your class-you have to breath during the contractions. Practice every chance you can get by breathing through your nose and out of your mouth with a relaxed open mouth and jaw, not puckered. By relaxing your mouth and jaw it encourages you to relax the rest of your body. For my first I ended up tensing another part of my body and that prolonged my labor. For the rest I really concentrated on relaxing during the contractions.

Second; Have your husband perform some counterpressure techniques. That will take your mind off of the pressure that you feel. You will begin to focus on what he is doing.

Third: It helped me to have music in the room. I am a Christian so I selected music that allowed me to focus on God's strength and not my own. Use what you feel will help you relax and give you inspiration if you get tired.

I actually felt different things with each delivery because of their different birth weights but I did feel every aspect that you learn about in your classes. (The pushing urge was most interesting to me because you really can't help it!) And because you will feel the head you can better manage how strongly you push so that you don't tear or have to get an episiotomy done.

Also, without meds you don't have to worry about side effects of the drugs on you or the baby.

Regardless of what you feel you also have to remember that it won't last long and it is for a purpose. With each contraction there is progress toward the goal of a healthy delivery and a speedy recovery.

And why not believe that it can be pain-free? If you miss the mark but get close aren't you still better off?

My last daughter was 8 lbs 12oz where my others were 7lbs 13oz and 7lbs 11oz. Big baby or small it can be done. You have already birthed so there is no doubt that your body is built for this. You were carefully made to fulfill this purpose and MARVELOUS are His works. God's strength is there for you to lean on during your times of weakness. You can do this!

I gave birth to my now 14.5 month old son without an epidural. I REALLY didn't want one, but gave myself permission to have one if I felt like I couldn't make it, or if I was getting in my own way (pain making me tense up, etc.) I did use stadol, which is a short acting pain medication 2 times - at 5cm and at 7cm - because the contractions hurt quite a bit. The stadol only lasts about 1.5 hours, but that worked find during the tough parts for me. Labor was 9 hours (7 hours labor plus 2 pushing). Baby was fine. I recommend taking a childbirth class that concentrates on all the methods - that way you'll learn pain management techniques, but also about the pain medication so you can make an informed decision. That's what we did, and we were happy with it. Good luck! You can do it!

A.,

I was induced with both of my kids and did it the ol' natural way. They did give me something to help slightly with the pain of the contractions... I forget the name of it, it has been almost 11 years!

With that being said, I do remember how I thought the pain was horrid. I was exhausted by the pushing with my first child. But, I don't actually remember the FEEL of the pain - just the fact that there was pain.

What I DO remember with both of my kids is the way it felt when they came out. I can still feel that feeling. Of course, when you do it the natural way, you are so ready for that time to come, you may not be able to appreciate it fully! :)

Just so you know, my first child took over an hour of constant, hard pushing. My second child was out in less than 5 minutes.

So, yes, it does hurt. But I would not have done it any other way. The outcome is worth the battle if you ask me! :)

Good luck on that new little baby! :)

You have received a lot of great advice and stories. I will add my story. I wanted to do exactly what you did 7 years ago with the birth of my first child in a hospital. It did not work that way. I was induced (b/c my dr thought I was "late" and "let's have a baby". My body was NOT ready for birth) and it slowed down my labor along with terrible back pain and I couldn't get up and walk around b/c of all of the tubes and monitors and stuff. So I just had to lay there. And then my epidural slowed me down instead of sped me up, like some. 20 hours later, I had my dtr. It wasn't awful or the worst experience I've ever had, but it's not like I would have prefered.

We moved to TX and I used a mid wife with my last two births. It was awesome! I labored at home and walked around, held onto my husband when the contractions came, and just when you think "this is a terrible idea, what was I thinking" you are almost done! I wouldn't do it any other way. I also read the Bradley method and focused on relaxing. Sounds crazy, but it works!

I used Tina Rowe in Rockwall. She's awesome and will travel. It's not too late to use her or to just use her as a doula. I will give you her # if you want it. Just contact me. She's had moms come to her this late in their pregnancy.

You can do it. Stand firm. You be in charge of your child's birth. And remember, just when you think you are in too much pain and can't stand it anymore, don't give in! That means you are almost there. Walk around as long as you can.

Good luck!

I dont know about a "positive" experience per say, but I gave birth to six kids without the aid of an epidural on any of them and the last two are twins. I can't say that it doesn't HURT, because it does. I chose not to have an epidural because I felt like natual childbirth was the way it was supposed to be, and that was that. I can tell you that in every labor I experienced, it was fast and furious, and there really wouldn't have been time for one anyway (not that the nurses didn't try to push it on me anyway), but I think that my babies and I were all better off for not having it. I just think that we are meant to feel the pain of childbirth, maybe its a religious thing, but the experience itself, in my opinion is one that every mother should experience. You can do it, because you were meant to do it, and the feeling afterword is fantastic.

A.,

I gave birth to my son without an epidural. Even the delivery nurses asked me 4 times if I wanted one, and every time I had to say, no, no, I'm not having one. I don't want it.

It is a common misconception in this world that you can't survive the pain of giving birth without totally being drugged. Remember that this concept comes from a time period where they used to completely anesthetize women at the hospital for surgical birth procedures. I realized the nurses kept asking just because they were so shocked that someone didn't want an epidural for a first birth.

Because I am a tiny person, I did have a local injection toward time of delivery for an episiotomy. This was only because my doctor did not want me to tear. It only took a few seconds and it only felt like a little pinch. Against contractions, you can hardly feel it. Other than that, I only had one half of a cc of Stadol (which is an iv administered medication that just takes the edge off of the pain.) I had a 7.5 hour labor and asked for the injection about 4.5 hours in because about the time it would kick in would be about the time I felt I wanted a little relief.

I was totally happy with my birth experience and have never regretted it. Don't feel pressured not to follow through with your choice just because other people are too scared or too close-minded to agree with you. It's your delivery, after all!! You don't need their approval!! (Only that of your doctor.) :)

Well you got a lot of support here! Almost didn't think my addition would be worth it but I have to say, go for it! Your heart is tugging hard and I think God will be with your and this baby the whole way!
I have a high pain threshold but there were other complications. They had to induce me, break my water and convince me to take an epidural cause they thought labor would be like 12 - 15 hours. So I did what they said, but the epidural only numbed my legs, not much else. It was amazing to go through having my son that way. And because he may be my only one, I appreciate how it all went, well except them breaking my water, that was worse then any other part, I had no amniotic fluid. I was lucky though no complications from and epidural and my labor was only 46 minutes, kind of a waste of the drug.
Take care and God bless!

I gave birth to my second and third children without and epidural. My second child (daughter) came so fast I didn't have a choice. But I made the decision with my third (daughter) to not get the epidural. The delivery is not what is painful. If you can make it through the contractions, that is what is painful. I have no regrets and would do it again! I hope you go through with it!

It is a wonderful experience. I had my daughter naturally and we were in another country and they do things the natural way. My doctor gave me a shot for relaxation and that was it. He broke my water at 3:45 pm and I delivered at 5:45 pm. The pain is intense but you can handle it; just focus and breathe. Near the end when you think you have had enough it is time for the actual birth to occur as the pain stops the baby starts it to come down and out. Yes, it is a different feeling when the head and shoulders deliver as your hip bones dislocate out of the sockets and pop back in but it is such a brief time that before you know what it is, it is over and the baby is born. The rewards are great as mentioned about that the child is alert and you feel like you have accomplished something very special all on your own with no help. You get to experience the way the body was meant to work to produce a child. When you stop pushing (muscles), your body takes over and continues to push so be aware of that but you know you can feel when the baby is "sliding" gently down and out - no one can explain it it is a feeling a great feeling. Enjoy. My child is now 31 years old and I remember it like yesterday. My comment to my husband was, "I did it all by myself." I breastfed and was given great coaching by the nurses. The other S..

I have had 3 children. My older two I had WITHOUT any meds at all (other than demerol and petosin<sp>) and the recovery was quick and the pain excruciating (hey, I'm not gonna lie to ya) and I wouldn't have it any other way.

I had my last one 17 months ago and at the urgence of everyone around me, had an epidural. I HATED IT!!! IT can slip (mine did) and then it just hits a nerve every time you contract and a myriad of other things.

After having two natural, I knew how to handle my pain. Breathing and focus and sheer determination...but after having the epi...I couldn't manage the pain that was inflicted upon me because I was drugged.

It was 12 hours of hell after which a c section was performed. I am completely convinced that had I not had the epi, I could have had him vaginaly.

Also, without all the drugs, I was only in the hopsital 24 hours (and 18 with the second one) and went home, able to walk without issue and recovered quite nicely.

I stayed in the hospital for nearly 5 days with my last one...not only due to complications of the epi...but because of the Emergency C section.

So there ya have it...two very positive experiences.

If you think you can manage your pain, have a decent support system and can keep your eyes on the goal at hand (being able to hold your bouncing bundle of joy) then you should be ok.

Most today tho, don't want to have any part of the pain process...and it takes someone with dedication to actually NOT want to have pain management.

Like my Doc told me...why would you want to purposfully stab yourself in the gut repetitiously and feel it every time?

Lesson learned...

Good luck and I wish you well.

Hi A.,

Looks like you've gotten plenty of responses, well here's my 2 cents. I have 3 kids- ages 5,3 and 18 mos. With my 1st pregnancy I was determined not to have an epidural and I was giving birth at a hospital. My doctor thought I was crazy, but she supported me, and told me that the meds were there if I changed my mind. I also did not let her induce me, I think that's where things get rough. Putting your body into labor before it's ready, starts the process of needing pain management. From what I understand the contractions are very different when they are induced by pitocin as opposed to natural labor pains. I figured that women had done it for thousands of years and I wanted to give it a shot. I did it. We did have a doula, which is great support for you and your husband. She was with us for all 3 of our births and she always says that when birthing women get to the point that they say they can't do it anymore and they want to quit, that is when you're just about done-- that has been true all 3 times for me. It's a wonderful experience to let your body go into labor naturally and experience the birth process. Doctors don't always like it because it may not be convenient--- for example, my son was born at 3 in the am, and the doctor had to get up and come then. But that's why they make the big bucks. Another thing for me is that I could never understand why women I knew would avoid tylenol and benadryl while they were pregnant, but when it came to spending some time uncomfortable, they are more than willing to pump themselves and their unborn babies full of narcotics. Don't get me wrong, I feel that medicine has it's place should you or the baby be in distress, but give it a shot. You will be amazed at how strong you are and your husband will be really proud of you.

Anyways, I had my next 2 babies at a birth center with a midwife and doula and it's a wonderful experience. People will think that your're crazy and you will get all kinds of negative comments, but don't listen-- you can do it. Best of wishes with whatever you decide

E.

I had a natural child birth and am so glad I was able to. During my pregnancy I did the bradley course and lamaze classes. I knew I wanted to try to have an unmedicated birth. Well, my friends and family thought I was crazy. I got the same reaction you did and everyone said "why feel the pain if you don't have to." I believe it is a personal choice. I felt that I didn't judge people who have epidurals so I shouldn't be judged for not having one. I'm not going to lie it is very painful; however, nature is so amazing that once they hand you your baby it completely erases the pain you felt. You have so much adranaline running through your body, their is so much excitement, and you feel so empowered that you were able to do it. I honestly can't describe the pain, but it was worth it.
One thing I will say is, I was always open to possibly having an epidural if I couldn't handle it. My husband was very supportive and I'm so glad he took the classes with me. I had great nurses and one of them is actually who I credit with helping me get through the contractions.
I think what also helped was hearing that I was 9 cm after an hour of contractions. Hearing the words 9 cm was a huge motivation after seeing videos of woman in labor for 15+ hours. I was in labor for a total of 3 and half hours.
If you are able to, I would strongly encourage walking if you aren't already. I really think that walking for my whole pregnancy is what helped me have a quick labor.
Hope this helps and good luck!

Personal experience, I went for 20 hours of labor with my 2nd after a c-sec with the first b/c of a breech. I was only at a 5 when they gave me my epi. after 18 hours and after they gave it to me, I went from a 5 to a 10 in 25 minutes! Crazy, I know, but that's what happened. Sometimes I think it would be cool to experience the sensation, and be able to complain to my kids what I went through for them (lol), but, I'm so glad that I had the epi. b/c it let me focus on what was important, which was being able to have a VBAC and seizing the moment that my baby was emerging rather than worrying about pain. Just another opinion. Super good luck in what you decide. Congrats on the new baby!

I have 3 kids. I had the last 2 without an epidural. There is pain involved. I liked the fact that I could walk and go to the bathroom when I needed to. I also knew when the contractions were coming and knew when to push. I tell people that they should have their babies natural without any meds. Most of them look at me like I am crazy. When it was time for the third child,, I knew I was doing it natural again. Of course, he happened to be the longest labor. If they have to give you petosin (sp), the contractions will hurt more towards the end.
Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!

I gave birth to my first daughter without an epidural. My daughter was not going to come on her own so I had to be induced with pitocin (sp??). From what I have heard the pitocin is suposed to make the contractions harder and more frequently. From my experience the pain was completely bareable and I did not feel the need for the epidural. I highly recomend looking into the Bradley method which is what I researched before going into labor. I know that after I gave birth there is a overwhelming sense of accomplishment when you refuse the epidural. It isn't something that is done as frequently but I think there is a sense of pride that comes with having a completely natural birth experience the way God intended it to be.

A.,
I am the mother of 3 wonderful boys ages 24,19 and 7 and have been married for 29 years. I was going to have my first natural but thru tiredness I gave up finally and received an epidural. Back then I could not even move to the other bed when asked. With my second I also received one and the amount of medication they gave me had changed and I could move around alot more. I was happy with the epidurals and was able to watch the births and such. After being married 23 years we had a wonderful suprise to our family - a third baby boy. I received an epidural - but it did not take. Somewhere along the lines I missed the part that one in so many do not work. Then it was too late in my labor to receive another one. So natural we went. I had great nurses and my husband of course. If you stay calm and keep your mindset like you said and concentrate at what you are doing the experience it is great. I had no problems except the cord was wrapped around my sons neck and I could tell something was a little wrong by everyone's faces. The Dr. and his team handleded this fine with watching the monitors and telling me when to stop pushing so the baby would not loose air. This was a great experience for me. I did not plan it this way at all. I was a little worried and asked the nurse if I was doing everything right - ha.. She said that I was doing great and that I was listening and doing fine - not like the many young mothers that do this naturally. I was calm and quiet and soaking everything in that ws happening to us. So advise from an older Mother - go ahead and try it - if you really cannot finish and have not gone too far - they can then offer you medication. This would not be a failure in any sorts. I was able to block the pain and enjoy the experience. God did not give me anything I could not handle. Now after having said that - I still feel great about all 3 of my sons births. They were all great with or without an epidural. Good luck during this process. May God Bless you and your family.

S.

I think it is awesome you want to have a drug free birth. Don't let other people scare you out of what you want to do.

I too wanted to have a drug free birth. My husband and I attended 8 weeks of natural child birth class and were all ready. Everyone I knew was so negative about it -- except my mom who had 4 kids without drugs. I got all those crazy looks you mentioned! Unfortunately, my baby had some health issues and at 39 weeks they needed to deliver immediately via C-section. I never even got to feel a contraction :-( I was really disapointed that I didn't get to have the birth experience that I wanted. But at the end of the day - I had a perfect baby. So it may not turn out exactly how you picture -- but in the end you will have everything you need -- a perfect baby.

Good luck --- and I know you can do it if you put your mind to it!

Personally, I can understand that some women cannot take the pain of labor. However, I had all three of my children without pain medication or an epidural. I wanted to have them naturally and did so, and did not have to have a catheter or any of the other stuff that goes along with it. Once you have the baby the pain is gone a you can move about as you wish. Not having to use a bed pan or anything else. I am just one of those people who do not like to NOT be in control of myself. You can always try to go through labor without the epidural and there are other medications the doctor can give you to ease the pain. Good Luck!

I gave birth to my son 3 years ago. I had an epidural, actually two, and neither worked. So, I felt everything. It is NOT as bad as some people make it out to be. Does it hurt? Yes! BUT, as soon as the baby is out, the pain is 100% gone and honestly, I can look back on it now and say "that wasn't that bad". The contractions when you are dialated around a 7 until you start to push are the worst. For me, I felt better once I was able to push. If you want, try it naturally. You could always change your mind in the middle of labor! :)

Yes, I did it with my first baby! I had a wonderful midwife and doula. I would advise having both if you are going natural. If you choose to go to a hospital, though, you can bring a doula with you. She'll know several techniques to sooth the pain. I also recommend a hypno-birthing class or book as that calms the mind and nervous system. My baby even came out head sideways (transverse), but I was able to push through the pain (even after almost 3 hrs). I felt wonderful and so full of energy after it was over.

Hi A.,

I had gave birth without any pain meds or epidural. Yes it hurt but it was all worth it. I think what helped me was I was active during my pregnancy. We also took the Lamaze classes and we decided that natural child birth was the best way to go. Just make sure you hold your husband's hand through it and you will be fine.

S. R

Howdy A.,
Well I have had 3 baby boys without epidurals. They were all 9 pounds and above. Two were induced because of size and moved earlier by two weeks and were still 9.0 pounds. The non-induced was 9.9
With kid #1- I did not have an epidural. I was induced two weeks early due to his weight on the sonogram, a whopping 9.0 pounds. I had a beautiful baby boy about 6 hours after labor started. I did have some demerol at 6cm, because I stopped dilating. Once I was a little more relaxed my dilation picked right back up, and he was born within 2 hours. I had a grade 4 tear from the bottom of my vagina all the way into my rectum because I pushed so hard his head and both shoulders came out at the same time. The doctor said it was like a linebacker and she didn't have time for an episiotomy. I didn't feel a thing. I felt her stitching me up once she got to rectal area, but it was minor and over quickly. Now, the contractions hurt, NOT lying about that. The demerol takes the edge off but does not stop the feeling of pain or of the labor. It also didn't knock me out. Just relaxed me so I could focus and deliver.
Kid #2- My second son was also a big strapping baby and topped out at 9.9 and was two days late. I went into natural labor, but my water didn't break. I labored at home until my contractions were about 1 minute apart. At home, I walked, and rocked in the rocker during most of the contractions. They were not as bad as induced ones, I can tell you that. When they were about 1 minute apart I woke hubby up and we left for the hospital. NO epidural. I was a 5 when I got there, and the nurse said the only thing holding the baby in was the sack. The doctor got their about 1 hour after I did and broke my water. Baby was born about 3.5 hours after getting to the hospital. It was great. I had a shot of stadol around an 8 to relax me so I could focus and get him delivered. No real tear, but I did get a few stitches. NO episiotomy. Not nearly as sore but pretty close after delivering first son.
Kid #3-- He was another whopping big brawny boy at 9.0 pounds. I convinced the doctor to induce me about 2 weeks early due to size. So we did. He wouldn't have agreed if he thought the baby was at risk or would be harmed, but he did have pity on me. Plus it was the Christmas season. I was induced. Again, no epidural. pain shot of demerol around 7cm to relax and help labor progress. He was born after about 6.5 hours of labor. Small tear, stitched up quick.
I would suggest several things if you are going to do natural labor or minimal drugs. The drugs are ok. They do sometimes help labor progress. Realize you may be crazy and let the nurses know you needs and trust them to help you make the right decision. Sometimes pain medication is a good thing. One shot won't hurt. It had little effect on any of my babies, other than to help their mother relax and bring them into this world. I would also recommend lamaze classes etc. to prepare you with the breathing etc. I hated the music. It was to distracting. I also don't like anyone touching me during an active contraction. It is also too distracting. Pat, stroke, mop my brow, but not when I am in pain and concentrating on pushing or not pushing. I also need to be in a semi-sitting position. I like to sit up and use the grab-bars or handles on the beds to help me bear down. The thing to really remember is that when it is time to push, you have to push with all your might, every muscle in your being like you are having a giant bowel movement. Which leads me to my next point, don't eat weird food close to delivery, because you will have a bowel movement during labor. It is natural and the staff expect it and take appropriate measures. But no need to make it worse than normal. I would also encourage you to have a catheter or let them do one to empty your bladder. Sometimes the urethra is compressed during labor and you can't urinate, then after labor you can be swollen or the nerve is still compressed and you can't urinate. With my second, I swore to them that I had to pee, but no-one would believe me. They kept saying it was pressure from the babies head. Well after the baby was born, I still had the urge to go, but couldn't. I begged for a catheter. I had 600cc in my bladder. That is like a little more than half a liter, one liter is 1000cc. I was so thankful when they drained my bladder. The baby was probably bouncing on it like a trampoline to boot, and it probably would have made labor a little better to have the bladder empty.
I would always give birth this way and it has worked for me. I don't judge people who get epidurals. They are just not for me. The idea of a needle in my spine is scary to me. More scary than labor. I also had a co-worker that is now paraplegic from a bad epidural. She is in a wheelchair, normal otherwise. But I just knew the epidural was not for me. To scary. So, my labor decisions were based out of fear, but turned out wonderful none-the-less. And what they say is true, once they put that baby in my arms, I never even felt the placenta delivered or the uterine massage directly after, and only some stitches when getting sewn. By the time I felt the stitches, we were done.
I hope this helps.
Good luck,
L.

I went natural on my first child and my second I wanted to also, but I finally gave in and got the epidural when I was a 7. My epidural was not completely numbing, so I could feel the birth, just could not feel the contractions. Both times were different and I don't regret either birth experience. I commend you, if you want to go natural go for it. It is an experience like none other. Just keep an open mind. You never know what the delivry will be like. Just remember to make the birth the way you want as much as possible. You are the only one who knows what you are capable of.

A.,
I've all of my children with no drugs or epidural. I have a back injury with scar tissue right where the epidural would go so that just freaked me out. However, with the back injury already, back labor pain was not fun. With that being said, it is AMAZING what our bodies are created to handle. I was induced with all of my kids because my body doesn't produce enough of the hormone to cause me to go into full blown labor on its own. I will not say that it was easy but then again that is why it is called "LABOR". I've had every length of labor from 36 hours to just under 5 hours and survived all of them just fine. My thought was to go into labor with an open mind and if I needed something to take the edge off, I can do that and I am not a failure for doing that. I think going the natural route though did make my recovery much faster. It is most definitely do-able with positive mindset and positive encouragement. You just have to tune out the negative comments and go with what your desires are and what your body tells you it can handle. Now I have some friends that say they LOVE being pregnant and LOVE labor & delivery. I am not one of those people. I didn't not "enjoy" being pregnant or L&D but I am so glad that I made the decisions that I did. You CAN do this. Just remember that if labor & delivery doesn't go as you have planned or wanted it, it doesn't mean you are a failure. The end result is the same....your baby is here and that is what really matters! Feel free to send me a message if you have any questions. Good luck and best wishes!

Hi A.!
I can tell you that you will never experience a more awesome event in your life! I had my 4 year old and my 5 month old both natural. I can tell you when I had my 4 year old, I have never felt closer to God before in my entire life. There is no way a beautiful miracle like that could happen without him. The feeling to be coherent and able to enjoy my baby immediately is priceless. My second childbirth, Isabella was also amazing although she did take a little longer. The joy of seeing you child takes away all the pain you had. There is a great book called Supernatural Childbirth by Jacki Mize that gives great encouragement and testomonials. I hope this helps!!! Enjoy your pregnancy and birth!!!

Ahhhh, an epidural is so archaic; I find it hard to believe that soon-to-be mothers still go through this process. I have two children, and had 1/2 shot of demerol with each delivery. My births were only 5-hours each time, and when I hit diliation of a three, there was no four through ten; it was time to go. Needless to say, I didn't receive my 1/2 shot of demerol until the last hour of labor. There was pain, I won't lie to you, but I would do the same thing again were I to have another child. Some say that having the demerol causes your newborn to be sleepy, I never had that problem with either of my children. No side effects at all.

Good luck to you!

A.-
Good for you! Don't let anyone's look stop you from what you want to do. I too wanted to deliver my child without an epidural. Not only was I scared of an epidural I wanted to see what it felt like and to have the accomplishment of doing it the old fashioned way. I worked up until the birth of my son--I got home from work that day and started "nesting" I cleaned the house until it was spotless. Then at 11pm I was going to bed and my water broke. I got to the hospital about 2am. The pain was not bad until they gave me potossun (sp?) I then started having contractions for 2 minutes and a 30 second break in between. I would rock in the chair and it really kept my mind of the pain. My husband was right there with me making jokes and talking me through it. I could hear the other moms in the rooms next to me screaming and the nurses would come in saying I was doing great and don't listen to the screams they are not even at a 1 yet. It was funny how all the nurses really seemed to respect what I was doing and even one stayed after her shift to see me deliver. I had a great experience and was in labor for 18 hours and pushed for right at 3 hours. I would not have changed that for anything in the world. Although I do feel like a failure as my son weighed 9 lbs 3 oz and I ended up having to have a c-section because it turned out his head was to big and he was turned wrong. I still wish I could have finished the delivery naturally but I do hold my head up higher that I went as long as I did.

Good luck to you. I wish you the best.

Without!! It hurt like hell but it was so totally well worth it. I had one child with epidural in hospital; one child without pain meds in a birthing center with midwife. The latter experience was sooo MUCH better..like night and day. Afterwards, you'll remember THAT it hurt but Mother Nature won't let you actually remember the pain. That way She ensures you won't stop having little children. Women throughout history have done it; if you choose not to join them, it's a rite of passage you totally forfeit. I think it's a shame not to experience it at least once in your life if you have the option.

A.!
I am expecting you will get lots of good feedback here (as you will from me), but you may also want to talk to a mid-wife (most of them do epi-free births and there are some here on mamasource), a duola, a wholistic (sp?)dr, and/or check into hypno birthing/babies (birthing under a hynotic-like state)and other birth relaxing techneques (Bradley, not just lamaze)!

Anyways, to help you feel more secure about your decission and get a little comfort, I HAVE GIVEN BIRTH WITHOUT EPIDURALS TWICE (the first time my baby came natural but I had a bit of stadol per IV and the second time I was induced)-I will GLADLY do it w/o an epi again for my next birth (we plan on having 3, maybe 4 kids)! I think my dr. even thought I was crazy when I told her of my plan to not get an epidural during my first pregnancy (she said "we will see what happens") but afterwards, another associate on mine whom went to the same dr. did the same as I (no epi) and has told me over and over how glad she was that she did not get one!

The choice was easy for me:
-I like things to happen as natural as possible. I believe that the woman's body is naturally meant to give birth, therefore, unless the pregnancy is complicated and asssistance is needed, epidurals are un-natural and should only be used as a second choice! I beleive that science can help nature when needed, but most of the time, nature does just fine on it's own so science should not step in unless needed!
-I have a high pain tollerence and with experience now know that my other pain experiences were near the same or worse than child birth!
-I feel child birth naturally impowers the woman!
-I saw it as a challenge and thought just the self-control I learned from the relaxation classes would help me focus and birth better than putting foreign stuff in my body and giving those chemicals the control and not me(feeling of accomplishment)!
-It added $5,000 to my hospital stay in our area (with insurance) and I felt why pay something that is not really needed (by me, anyways)!
-Many of my friends that did get and epi had issues with it not working, only working on half of their body, or not really working until time to push (which is when it should be wearing off so you can feel to push better and make it easier to get the job done-still amazes me that with their problems they swear by them but I guess they are scared because they know no better) as well as some of them having back pain for weeks or monthes later.
-I knew I could do it!
-I had a supportive husband/coach (have the coach take the relaxation class to-VERY IMPORTANT I BELIEVE) He was great at helping me relax and great at helping me through the pain with massage and talking me through it!
-I birth pretty fast and many women in my family did prior to my first birth so I was also worried about the epidural having enough time to "kick in".
-There is evidence that epis make the birthing process last longer
-I went in knowing that if I needed meds (IV or epi as last resort), I had not failed, I just got help! The goal was healthy baby, healthy mother!
-Evidence shows a quicker recovery
-There is actual evidence that if you can make it through the "transition" phase (the point when most women actually ask for the epidural), you have made it through the worst part and your body then some-what becomes numb to the pain anyways (in other words, if you can just hold out for a few moments longer, the worst is over!)

Like I said above: I DID IT TWICE AND WOULD DO IT AGAIN AND WOULD ENCOURAGE YOU AND OTHERS TO TRY IF YOU LIKE!!!!!!! Women did it all the time before epis were around and I beleive we are just as strong as they were then!

My suggestions:
-Find some support and the positive everywhere you can (feel free to personal message me if you have any other questions, concerns, need advice, or need support)
-ignore the negative (it is coming from people who are mostly not personal with the natural experience and are nieve about natural birth, never experiencing it first hand)
- find some tried birthing relaxation techniques (hypno-birthing, lamaze, etc-check your local library for books, ask your dr and hospital for classes)and study them
-get a good coach and supportive dr (even if the/she doesn't beleive you like mine-just as long as they are supportive of your wants, decissions and are there to help)
-chat with a mid-wife or doula(you can find them on mamasource-that is how I found the one I just talked to and learned from them- I didn't have one at the birth with me-I was just informed and preped)
-Go to the hospital as late as possible-do as much labor at home as possible-once you get to the hosp, they will hook you up to all sorts of stuff that make laboring comfortably without an epi harder. Now, I was induced with my 2nd child and therefore did all my lobor in the hosp. and some-what hooked up (I refused some of the stuff) and still did fine but I would have preferred to do most of my labor at home if possible just because it was more comfortable but the hospital was fine too! I asked nicely for the nurses to help me (as they hooked the petocin up) through a natural labor and they did what they could and I refused some of the cord-hook-ups (my right) that I knew would not put me or the baby in harms way but was just to keep tabs on us!
-I would sugest using IV meds only as a back-up and if you feel you need them (don't rely on them) for relaxation but realize that they may make you feel wierd (Stadol made me feel drunk with my first delivery and I used it spaingly and basicly slept between contractions-I did not like that and did not have it during my second delivery). For me, they did't take the pain away, just the edge.
-When you are laboring and pushing, find the position that is most comfortable for you and make it work (if hoked up at the hospital-the nurses never gave me trouble about moving around)! I liked the rocking chair when contracting and later, lying on my side while my hubby massaged or "counter-pressered" my lower back with his hands, palm or tennis balls(helped with back labor). Then during the short (for me it was short) pushing stage, I liked semi reclining while pulling "up" with a towel that the nurse was holding out in front of me just off to the side of the dr (if that makes since-if you want more detail, ask me to better describe)-BUT how I did it doesn't matter-what matters is how you LIKE IT and can get as comfortable as possible!
-Realize that if the dr. breaks your water, then the contractions become more intense b/c your coushion btwn you and the baby was taken away. The dr. may tell you this will speed up the process (there is debate on both sides of this one) but your contractions do become more intense and are likely to come closer together and it is possible that you still won't dialate any faster. I personally let the dr. break my water but not as early as she wanted to-when she first wanted to, I waited another hour before I let her! My babies were born within 30 min after my water was broke but I wanted to make sure I was fully or near fully dialed before breaking.

then you will do just fine~!

I say that if this epi-free birth is what you want, give it an EDUCATED try (meaning, do your research on relaxation techniques and you and your coach both practice before hand!)

Oh, and I had both of mine with no tearing and no cutting because you can better control the push wehn there is no epi present. Plus, one of my births was through "back labor" (baby comes out oposite facing from normal-not breach, just wrong side up-so labor is a little more intense) and one had a cord around the neck (more common than most realize) but had and great recovery with both(I was like me again with lots of energy just a few hours later)!

And as for the pain present, I can remember it hurting but I also remember it being what I would call "brief shots of pain" in "intervals" which gave me time (even if just a second or two) to regain composure-not near as intense as my knee issues (much more painful). My knee problems were far more painful as I recall than birthing(it is true that you forget a lot of the pain during the birthing process-at least for me) because I never got the chance to regain composure between knee pain "strobes" and would much rather birth another baby before going through my various knee pains again!

BEST OF LUCK AND LET ME KNOW HOW YOUR PROCESS IS GOING!

YOU CAN do it, I promise!!!!!!!!
T.

I had fully intended to give birth to number 3 without any pain meds at all - I did have an epidural with number 2 - induction and 4th degree tearing, with vaccuum assist - I don't think I could have tolerated that without the epidural. Anyway, number 3 turned into emergency c/section!!! The best laid plans!!! Number 1 was super easy, I was overdue, went into labor - it was easy, not painful beyond belief - and I was up and out in no time at all - like just 3 days later at the zoo!!

Childbirth is a NATURAL process, and it is painful, but short lived. Do what feels right for you. I have had many friends deliver with a midwife in their own home with no pain meds - and they would do it again in a second!!!

Good luck!!!

I have a son that is 5 and a daughter that is 17 months old. I had both of them naturally, with no epidural. I didn't have a bad experience with either one of them. The first one they told me i would be lucky to have him within 12 hours and he was here in 6 b/c i was told the epidural slows down your labor in some cases stops it completely. My second one was here in 3 hours. It was great!

A., I sooo wanted to do it. I had to take the epidural after 24 hours of labor. Maybe since it's your second child, labor won't be so long. I'm just commenting to cheer you on!! since I haven't actually done it, but will try again next time. Good luck, and if it doesn't work out, just know you gave it all you had, and enjoy your new baby. Congrats!

A.
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You Can Do IT!!!! I did not have an epidural with either of my kids. However with my first I had some pain meds. (Stadal sp?) THe meds knocked me out. I remember waking up at the hight point of all my contractions and then waking up saying that I had to push NOW. The whole delivery is a blur. With our second I had nothing. THe doctors and nurses thought I was crazy, but it was wonderful. It hurt Yes...but I remember everything, and I felt better after delivery. Part of that was probably that he was my second, but I was up sooner and felt like a different person.

I think that you will be glad that you did it without any pain meds. It is hard, but totally worth it. Hope this helps. Congrats on the new baby on the way.

If you are crazy, then I am completely off my rocker. I've had six. My first in the hospital w/o epidural, 2 in a birth center and the last 3 at home. I can't compare epidural to non-epidural. I can tell you that my birth experiences (particularly those at home) have been awesome. I wish that I had the words to completely convey the experience. Birth is work and it is painful and you do get to the point that you say, "ENOUGH. I can't do this anymore." You work past it and then you have a baby and all the difficulty is forgotten. I have never felt so 'connected'. To my spouse. To my own body. To this sisterhood of women. Eventually to this new little being that I helped bring into the world. I cannot praise enough the midwives that I've used. (Most recently Dinah Waranch at Lovers Lane Birth Center. Love, Love, Love Dinah.)
Birth is a very powerful happening. It's all worth it.

I had both my children (24 and 27 years ago) when epidurals were not common at all. I did the lamaze classes. If I had decided to have a third child, I would do it the same. With my first one, I did not even have any type of injection for the pain and I did fine. With the second one, they talked me into a mild pain reliever and when my daughter was born, she was not as pink or lively as the first birth and THEN the nurse told me that the sedative had affected her as well thru our common blood supply in that short time. I say go for it! There is some pain, but you have that up until the time of the epidural anyway. The actual delivery is not that bad because with all the pressure of the baby down there, everything gets numb anyway. Remember to do your breathing, think positive thoughts, and take each contraction one at a time. Stay active for the rest of your pregnancy, walk, excercise if doc says its ok, etc. That helps to make the delivery easier as well. Good luck and hope you decide to do the natural way. My motto has always been, why be afraid of something you have never been thru? May God bless you with a happy healthy baby and a fast, easy delivery!

Hi A.!
Yes, you CAN do this! And it is never too late to decide to give birth naturally. I delivered both of my children without any drugs at all, both in the hospital. The nurses and hospital staff are so ready to talk you into any drug, so be ready for that 'battle'. I wrote all my desires on a list and posted it on the door! (No IV, no catheter, no epidural, no pain meds, low lighting, our CD player etc.)
Your hubby will be your #1 support. It was the greatest accomplishment of my lifetime and I would highly reccommend you go for it!If you think you can then YOU CAN! Yes, the pain is maneagable. There are options you have to manage,if you are not tied down in bed, like walking, sitting on a yoga ball, showering, massage from your hubby etc. Also, I snuck in some juice and a cracker or two, depending on how long you are in the first stage of labor, you may want a tiny tiny snack.
Just find something to focus on and also remember to breathe as naturally as possible. Actually, the most challenging time in my labor was the second stage, because I was not doing anything actively (no walking or not yet pushing). I hope you try and commit to yourself that you can do this!
Both of my babies arrived much quicker than I feel they would have otherwise and best of all... They both were so very alert and awake!!! And they both latched on very well right away, too!
Peace, Love and His Light! L. =-)

I wouldn't do it any other way. I worked in the hospital 7 years and saw the bad things that can go wrong as a result of the epidural. I had my baby at home on the floor with a nurse-midwife and a lot of pain! I'm not gonna lie, it hurts, but it's sooooo worth it! I think it must be a ton harder to have a birth without an epidural in the hospital. Those women are tough!! At home I could cry and walk and shower and munch on ice/jello. Yeah, it hurt, but yeah it's done when it's done. And second babies are usually easier. Plus the medical evidence is starting to show that pain is good for you and the baby. Those endorphines start to get the baby ready for breathing and life outside the womb. Good luck to you and tell the nay-sayers to piss off...

Good Luck to you! I belive you are making the right choice. I have had 3 beautiful drug free deliveries!I never screamed and hollored or turned mean. Yes part of it was really uncomfortable, but as long as you can keep focus the"pain" is manageable. Also I don't reccomend letting them induce you if at all possible. When you go into labor naturally it is a lot easier on your body. I just wasn't comfortable knowing the risks tha can happen. I have seen babies have dificulty breathing, another woman's face was half paralized after getting one. Birth is a wonderful thing! Oh also ask hubby to massage yor feet(get a reflexology chart to show the pressure points)it should help. It really is a wonderful experience with out an eppidural!

Hi A.!
I gave birth to both my kids with out any type of pain relief. Both deliveries were great experiences...I would never have it any other way. A lot of people would look at me the way you say they look at you. To them I say What a WIMP for not even thinking about it! ;)

I initially knew I wanted to go w/o pain medication, but I did want it available and nearby in case I did decide I needed it. I never did! when I gave birth to my first baby I kept thinking, With each contraction, "it definately can't get worse than this!" It did everytime, but I never realized it until after the baby was born. The nurses kept asking me if I need pain meds, and I finally let them have it telling them I would tell them when I was ready for it.

You really have to go in there with the mind set that you are going to do it with out meds. And be determined to do it. The nurses will pester you about it and make it easy for you to accept.

A., it is absolutely one of the most wonderful things you will ever experience! Plus, once baby is out, it's like you never hurt at all! And you can get up and walk around almost immediately!

I'm glad you're doing this for yourself!

Blessings
A.

hi A.! I chose to deliver both of my children w/o pain medication and I can recommend it. I still see people look at me like I'm crazy when I tell them but i know it was right for me. A few tips: make certain that your doctor is supportive. My first doc told me "Women don't really do that anymore. There's no reason to do something like that." I immediately switched to a birthing center where my decision was supported. Also, prepare your mind/heart. Making it through was COMPLETELY mental! The absolutely best thing i did was a Bradley birthing class. The focus was on the mental prep for natural birth. I can give you more info on that if you want. My teacher might have a condensed version you can take. Most of all know that God made our bodies to do this. It's an amazing process and being alert and full of feeling is the hardest and most wonderful thing you will ever do! Please feel free to write back and ask me any questions you have. Good Luck!

Hi A.!
I've run into the same thing - I'm at 30 weeks right now, and when people ask and I say we would like to try with no meds, they are mostly in shock and telling me how much it hurts. I pretty much just ignore them. The only person whose opinion I really value on the matter is my identical twin, who gave birth naturally a little over 4 years ago. No problems at all. Of course, she had a 16 minute delivery - we should all be so lucky! You should do what you want to do; plus you're going to classes - I really thing a good mind set and learning how to breathe through pain will help you a lot. Go with how you feel; people like to share their horror stories of pregnancy and birth, and it could be totally different for you.
Good luck!
-Christina

A., both of my children were induced and delivered completely natural. I have a wonderful husband who was the best coach during both. I think you are better prepared for natural childbirth if you and your husband are ready to work! You will know when to push and someone doesn't have to tell you, the pressure is more intense than any pain. I just fractured and dislocated my elbow and that pain was a 10/10 childbirth was more like a 7-8/10. I also liked the ability to move around during labor. I walked, used the shower, and a theraball was also great. Most nurses prefer to do natural so that should also be a great help. If it gets too uncomfortable there is always the epidural, but not after you are dialated to a certain number ( Sorry, I dont know what it is) We are designed to give birth so we can handle it! Recovery was also so much easier! Try to keep them from doing and episiotomy which is more common with epidurals too. I healed so much faster than some of my friends who had their children arounfd the same time! Also, once that precious baby is in your arm, it is all worth it! Good luck and make your choice, not what others say! My cousin tried natural and ended up with a C-section due to other factors, but she said she can't understand why so many women want a c-section. There are so many thoughts out there choose what is best for you!!! Good Luck !

I've had seven babies - four without epidurals, three with them. I'm 54 now, so there won't be any more babies, but if I did have another one, I'd have the epidural. Child birth is amazingly painful.
My first three were natural, I had an epidural for the next two. My sixth baby was a homebirth, so it was natural. The seventh was a hospital birth with a midwife. I had an epidural, but she came so fast afterwards, that I'm sure I could have made it without one if I had just known it was going to be that soon.
But I say, if you want to try it, go for it. You can always change your mind and ask for the epidural during labor, you don't have to schedule them.

I had my first child, a son, at age 30. I decided to have him with a midwife. It was the best experience of my life! I had a very difficult labor lasting many hours but my husband and the midwife were right there with me, helping me through it and encouraging me and finally he came out into his daddy's hands. It was very painful but it is so true that you don't even remember the pain when you see that sweet baby at last! What I remember most is that going through those hours of labor made me so much stronger as a woman. It made me feel like I was able to do anything, if I could do that, then everything else that I would come against in my life would be truley nothing compared to conquering what I had just been through. That is what made it worth the pain! Hopefully this is encouraging to you! I do encourage you to try it though if that is what is on your heart!

Hi A.! I have had all three of my children w/o an epidural. Two of them were induced. I did recieve one shot of demeral with all 3 deliveries. I recommend reading a book by Dr. Sears. Sorry I cannot remember the name, I think is was something like Managing Pain During Labor, or something like that. You may be able to search by author at your local library and find it that way. It really helped me not only understand what would happen to my body, and what was causing the pain, but how to deal with it. I hope it helps you too, congrats and good luck.

A.,

I have four children. I have never had an epidural. Just never wanted a needle in my back, personally. And didn't want to be limited on my movements after the baby was born. Also, my sister had one and it didn't work. So it was a waste of money and time. My first two babies (21 and 15 now) I had Demeral and it was horrible! My body did not react well and I felt so out of control instead of being able to focus. My second two children (9 and 6 now)I told my husband to not let them give me anything, no matter what. Those two were induced. My labor didn't start even with the meds until the water was broke. My first was born before the doctor got back, in less than 3 hours! My second, the doctor said she wasn't breaking my water until the lady next door delivered because she wasn't leaving the room after she broke my water. Good thing because she was born in less than an hour after my water was broken. My husband was wonderful at keeping me focused. I also listened to my body. Even though they told me not to push, when my body told me to push I did it. I just couldn't seem to help it. It was doing the work naturally. And my babies were born quick and drug free. And I felt great afterwards!

congrats!

Dear A.:

I had two experiences. the first one negative, the second one positive. By reading this, perhaps you can get a balanced view of what could possibly happen.

I had my first child without an epidural. It was something that I had originally wanted to do, however, in order to do so I knew that I would have to be in control in order to handle it. When the doctor begam to do things to speed up childbirth towards the end of my pregnancy and my water broke before I even went into labor, I knew I wanted an epedural.

Unfortunately, we do not always get to choose exactly how our babies are born. Since my water had broken I was stuck in bed unable to go to the restroom or even turn over or sit up. My contractions were weak and close together, so I was told I was not truly in labor (2-3 per minute lasting only 5-10 seconds for the first 5-6 hours). After 5 hours I was still only 2 centimeters dilated.

The contractions became very painful - like someone was hitting me in the abdomen with a baseball bat - knocking my breath out. The nurses were busy and unable to come in the room. They said they couldn't check on me anyway since my water had broken because of the risk of infection. I would count during the contractions - I estimate that they began to last up to about 1 minute. The nurses told my husband that I was not in labor so he became annoyed at my funny breathing and attempts to call the nurse.

Soon I felt the babies head banging on my pelvis bones. I was in agony. I felt my baby push on the uteris with his feet. Suddenly, I felt my pelvis give way and the baby's head enter it. I began to shake and vomit. Soon, everything began to go black. I began to hear voices. When the nurses entered the room 3 hours later, I was fully dilated. I could hear the nurses. When they spoke, I was "brought back down to reality". When they stopped, I heard "devil voices" and saw "swirls of color".

They gave me a minimal dose of Demoral at this point because it can be dangerous if given just before birth. They told me to push, but I refused. There was no doctor available. Mine lived out of town and they had not even called him yet. I felt that no one there knew what they were doing, and I did not want to have the baby with them.

When my doctor arrived, I began to feel like pushing. I delivered my son with only two pushes. The doctor did perform an episiotomy. He gave the injection to numb me with a needle that was about 10 inches long. It looked frightening, but the injections were made during contractions and I did not feel a thing.

I may have had a difficult time because my baby was long and had a big head - head circumference and head measurement match - my son was 23 1/2 inches long.

On the other hand, I could have had my second child like a breeze without an epidural. I needed one only for my "mental health". I was only in labor for 2 hours and 15 minutes. If you don't count the first 3 contractions, reduce that time to 45 minutes. I was dilating to a 10 before they began the epidural and the baby was born only 15 minutes after the epidural had begun. It had only set in above the bellybutton. I still needed a numbing injection in the vaginal area because I felt a strong burning sensation. The contractions were strong with my second child, but so much easier to bear because the nurses were so nice and my husband was supportive.

After childbirth, I was able to sit up and move at will. I felt great and was showered and dressed with full makeup on by the time the doctor visited me the next morning at 8:00a.m. What a difference! It took me a full 6 weeks to be able to sit up or take a decent shower after my first child.

Doulas are becoming easier to hire and that way you can ensure that someone is sensitive to you and your needs. I could have used an advocate during my first experience.

Good luck - since this is your second baby, things will be easier. :-)

Jen

I've had three children naturally and plan to have my fourth the same way. I use a midwife, and have had my babies in a birthing center. They have all been very positive experiences for me.

The facts? It hurts. A lot. But it is a lot of work too, and if you focus on the work, you can endure the hurt. If you believe you can do it and don't give up in the middle, you can do it. If you hold on to the fact that millions of others have done it and if you are even slightly competitive, that fact will drive you through it.

The pluses? Your healing time is a million times faster. With all three babies I was up and running the next day. Felt great. Sore but shopping the day after baby #1, etc. Your body releases all these great endorphins. No headaches, etc. You are able to move around and do what your body needs during labor. Nothing is holding you down, telling you have to have that baby laying on your back with your legs up (a totally stupid way to have a baby, by the way. I had my last one on my knees.)

I would meet with a midwife if I were you and discuss your concerns. You are pretty far along to consider a natural birth and if your doctor isn't onboard then it probably won't happen unless you go to a midwife. The positives of a midwife...you can't change your mind if the going gets tough so it doesn't even become an option...you've got someone with you incase their is a medical need...you don't have a doc lurking around the corner with an epidural just waiting for you to say, "Ow!" so they can rush in and say, "I told you you'd want this!"

I say go for it!

VickiS

BEST thing in the world. THE best! I didn't have so much as a Tylenol for the birth of my daughter, and it was exhilarating. I feel SO blessed and happy about the birth. It was the best experience of my life. Yes, it hurt, and I do remember shouting, "I'm going to die!" Then I thought back to my favorite pregnancy book, the part where it says you may feel like you're going to die, and we got through it.

I personally think it is a shame that so many automatically go for powerful drugs, or even a Csection without thinkig about the risks (to themselves and their babies). I am much more afriad of drugs or a giant needle in my back than pain, so for me it was an easy choice. Good for you for going for it! If it is too difficult, your doctor can help you out with the meds later, but you may really surprise yourself.

We did not take classes or use a doula or hypnosis or anything like that, though I know that helps a lot of ladies. For me, I tried to be informed about the process and just visualized the birth in my head and I stayed very positive about it. I tried to keep myself in great shape during pregnancy, and that really paid off. I will say that you should try to avoid induction if possible, as there is a high rate of women needing intervention with induction. Also, since it is your second baby it may be easier than a firt baby. Just listen to what the doctor and nurses tell you and go for it. Oh, by the by, if you feel like you are "going to die" remember this email, ha!

Emily J. was right, everyone does like to share their stories. I figure you've probably read enough to know your decision but I'll throw mine in too. I was 20 years old when I had my daughter a little a over a year ago without any type of medicine or pain killer. I was in labor with her for 21 hours and I am so glad that I did it 100% natural! All of that medicine is not good for your children or you to be honest, and epiderals can go wrong. This is rare I know, but it was just nice to know that I can handle the pain and be able to tell people that I had her all natural. Also, after I had my daughter, I went through another hour of even more excrutiating pain. I had a retained placent which is actually pretty common and usually easily fixed, mine however, was an extremely rare case where the placenta had actually grown to my uterus. Usually in this case the patient (me) would have been put under anasthesia immediately and given a complet hysterectomy but they didn't do this with me. My doctor decided to try to pull mine out and finally after an hour of praying the placenta came loose. I almost died and I've never been through such pain in my life! It was terrible! My point is though, if I can handle pain like that with no medicine, you can definitely handle having a baby without an epideral. Just go into it with the right mindset and don't break it. You can do it! I'll pray for you!!!!

Hello,

I am a mother of three I have an 8 a 3 and a 2yr. old. I can say I completely understand your situation. When I was pregnant with my first I considered going the no meds route; however I allowed my friends to talk me out of it and went ahead and had the epidural. When pregnant with my second child I also had that desire to experience giving birth naturally and did. I will say it is a wonderful experience, yes it will hurt but in all honesty it’s not that bad. I would say the pain is absolutely worth the experience, and the very moment the doctor places your baby on your chest, you will forget that pain ever existed. My personal experience with going natural was a good one so much so that I also had my third without an epidural. We decided we only wanted to have 3 children so I had my tubes tied. But I am so happy that I can say I got to experience child birth at its fullest. I would say it creates an even stronger bond with you and your children. My advice to you would be not to have an epidural; it truly is an amazing experience to do it w/o.

Hi A., I birthed my two kids w/o an epidural and am very proud of it. The thing that made me really want to give birth naturally was when I heard that the meds they use is in your newborn's baby system after birth and the fact that I could be paralyzed during the epidural process if something went wrong. I was like "No Way" (I'm not a fan of meds or huge needles anyway). Now I will not say for one bit that it is easy. You did say one thing that I believe can help in the process and that's to have a mindset that you can and will do it without the meds unless absolutely necessary. A few things that will help you is to exercise regularly (kegel), get the support of your spouse who will be in the room with you during birth and just do it! I did have two very short deliveries (1st- 2 1/2 hours and 2nd-30 minutes). Most people give me that same look when I tell them I birthed my kids without meds but it doesn't bother me. Bravery is a GRAND thing !!!! Good luck.

I had an epidural with my first child, but did not choose to do so again with my second or third. I would love for you to read my unmedicated birth stories. I love giving birth- my joy in doing so is part of why I became a childbirth educator and doula after my youngest turned 1.

Link to my birth stories: http://www.skoogie.net

You can do it- good luck!

D.
http://www.cherishbirth.com

I am now pregnant 21 weeks with number 4. The first 2 I had without an epidural and then because of complications had one with my 3rd. My plan with number 4 is to go without. Yes make no mistake it will hurt, the funny thing about it is that I can't tell you how bad because just about instantly I forget about the severity of the pain. You can have pain meds in your IV and my experiance with them is that they don't make the pain go away but the make it so that you can relax between contractions. Granted if you have some one with you that is well practiced in helping you to relax then you may find that IV meds are not necessary. That might be something that you want your husband to start practicing with you now as when the big day arrives if he dares to utter the words "just relax" you will want to grab hold of his manhood and tell him to relax. (speaking form expirance there) With my 3rd at 9 cm I had an epidural I hated it. I like to feel somewhat in control of my body and I had none. I couldn't feel when to push and had to be told. With the others I got up and walked to my post-patum room, I did not have a cathiter and I also did not have a sore spot on my back that kept me from leaning against the back of chiars for several weeks. With out the epidural is a completly different experiance that you will be glad you had.

I didn't read the other responses (too much words for me!), but wanted to know if you had seen the Ricki Lake documentary? Great! It's basically how American society has convinced women that labor is too painful to do without being medicated. It might be that extra nudge to convince you to stay natural. It is over an hour, but if you are really interested I can find you a link to it. It made me so glad I had my second naturally.

Of course the pain is terrible.....why do you think they call it LABOR????

If it's really all that bad, then why do we forget the pain? We know it hurts, but apparently, not badly enough to never do it again *L

I have had 3 children naturally with out any type of pain meds and can honestly say that while there is pain, once your child is in your arms, you dont remember that. All you feel is the joy of having a healthy baby. Pain is pain but it isnt something that wont go away. I feel very confident in my decision to have a drug free delivery, I know that my children were born awake and ready to meet the world.

My first child was all natural. I was completely aware of everything! My second child, I had an epidural - that was a horrible experience. I won't go into any details, but I would NEVER have another one.
With my daughter, I experienced everything and - even tho there was pain - it's true when they tell you it's a pain you don't remember. After she was born, I talked to my mom and she asked me if I was ready to do it again and I actually said YES! (I waited 5 years to have my second.)
I wouldn't trade that natural experience for anything in the world and wish I could have had my son naturally, as well.
So what if other moms/people look at you like you're crazy? If you want to experience natural childbirth, then go for it. If you don't, you will wonder what you missed.
I didn't do anything special - breathe thru the pain and anticipated the wonder of my first child.
Good luck to you!

I had three without any meds at all. With my first one I had a friend that had an epidural and six months later was still in pain from it so I decided not to have one. When my daughter was born the doctor commented on how great her color was and how alert she was. I asked him later and he said it was because I used no drugs. That made me decide to do the same with my other two. It was painful, but I believe worth it.
Good Luck
S.

with my first, i had an epidural and demerol, but only demerol with the second. i would so do the second route again in a heartbeat. i healed quicker. the baby was alert. it was just such a positive experience because i went in with an open mind (i was thinking no pain meds at all but went with demerol because i was exhausted and not dialiting). i think if you do the same, whatever the outcome, then you will have a positive experience too!