Going Natural {#1}

Auri at age one month.

I get a lot of questions when I tell people that I delivered Auri naturally. Naturally meaning at a birth center, with a midwife and no medication...not even a Tylenol. In writing this, I in no way want to come across as demeaning to other birth stories, I believe that what ever way you choose to bring your child into this world is beautiful and completely a personal preference. There is also the case where the unplanned happens and you end up delivering whatever way is best for the mom and the baby, to which modern medicine is life saving and very necessary (thank goodness).

Here the purpose of these "Going Natural" posts is to just fill you in on why I choose to birth this way and also to help me get ready for this next adventure I will be taking on come August. When birthing naturally you have to train your brain to think differently and it takes a lot of dedication so I think these posts will help me in that training process.

To begin with, here are some things that I loved about Auri's birth and why I want to do it again:

• I got to make the decisions. I decided where I wanted to be, who I wanted there, what positions I wanted to be in, where I wanted to walk, how dim the lights were, e.c.t.....Everything was up to me.
  
• We had the birth center to ourselves.
  

• My midwife was by my side the whole time- not just "to catch the baby".
  

• The atmosphere was very peaceful and calm.
  
• I got to eat and drink what I wanted. This is something that when you do it naturally you have to do to keep your energy up. The cold refreshing apple juice and jello did more for me than you would think.
  
• I loved the support I got from Andy. It was one of the most spiritual experiences to rely on his love and strength during the most intense parts of labor. I couldn't of done it without him.
  
• When I was nearing the end, I got an overwhelming rush of adrenalin and felt the most powerful burst of love I have ever felt. It was the only time in my life where I have had that intense of feelings.
• I got to hold Auri right after she arrived for almost a half hour before anyone took her from me.
  
• I got to cut the cord. (Andy was a bit squeamish)
  
• After we successfully got Auri here, I felt like the most powerful woman in the world!
  
• That night our new little family got to snuggle the whole night-in the same bed!
  
• The next morning me and Andy enjoyed breakfast in bed-while my midwife and an RN did a checkup on Auri.

I know that with this child it will be a different experience-especially considering that I am (most likely) going to birth in our home, but I know that there will be that sense of tranquility there that I desire. I am so grateful that my experience with birthing Auri was so perfect and hope that I can achieve my goals with each of my children.

p.s. Attempt # 2 ultrasound will take place this Wednesday. Wish me luck and a wiggly baby!