In The Birth Book, Martha Sears says "Unmanageable pain during childbirth is not normal." "Pain is not intrinsic to normal labor- sensation is." "Contractions (pressures in the abdomen and pelvic area during labor) and stretching and burning sensations of the perineum as birth nears are just some of the sensations."
I've heard other natural childbirth advocates say similar things. Apparently, I'm doing it wrong because I find myself in excruciating pain especially near the end of childbirth. Those contractions during transition, just before the baby is born, are no picnic to say the least. I certainly wouldn't refer to them as "pressures" unless pressures means "feels like knives." Each time I give birth I reach a point where I honestly don't think I can continue. The "sensations" or as I like to call them "raving crazy contractions that make me writhe in pain" make me throw up and shiver uncontrollably. The only good thing about those kind of painful contractions is that it means pushing the baby out is right around the corner. That is all that gives me hope. I'm not trying to scare anyone away from trying to deliver naturally, because obviously it is do-able! But I'm the first to admit that it is painful. To me, though, it's worth it for several reasons: no huge needle near my spine, no recovering from anesthesia, no anesthesia in my baby's system, and feeling more a part of the birth process are the first to come to mind. I'm always glad I did it without medication AFTER I get through it...never during.
4 comments:
I totally agree if you can do it without anesthesia do it; however, sometimes it is needed. I feel very much apart of Kimber's birth. I know I made the right decision as she was very stuck. It is like the birth teacher said - the only one who can make the best decision about what is right is the person in labor. Everyone has a differnt experience.
I don't want anyone to think I am implying that I was more a part of my kids birth than a person with anesthesia is. I have no idea what it feels like to give birth with an epidural. What I meant is that I personally felt more a part of the birth process than I think I would have if I could not feel it because of an epidural. I enjoy knowing the feeling of contracting and pushing, even though they are painful.
My mom had anesthesia with my two older sisters & decided not to have any when she gave birth to me. She has often told me how much quicker she recovered after my birth & how much better she felt afterwards. Having said that, I jumped at my first opportunity for an epidural when in labor with the twins. I am always in total awe & amazement at courageous mothers like you & my mom who can endure labor & childbirth without pain medication. You're a strong woman!!
I totally agree with Amberly - I meant to end my comment with WAY TO GO BECKY!! I can't imagine trucking along all night long. I, like Amberly, jumped at the epidural before I knew I would have no choice. Sorry for not ending my comment with praising you. I think it is amazing you are willing and able to do it. Part of me really wishes I could do it - but man you are right - IT HURTS! :) but it is the best hurt in the world! Love you Becky.
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