musings and misadventures: HTT

2.12.2008

HTT - Labor Edition

I'm afraid my former sassyness has been replaced by a rare mellowness so I won't be too intense with today's Hot Topic.

As you know, I'm recovering from a C-section. And while I think my recovery has been fast and relatively painless compared to some (due in part to circumstances and my strange threshold for pain), it was MUCH worse than a traditional delivery - longer hospital stay, prolonged recovery, huge wound, pain.

Then again, I get epidurals with my labors so my deliveries are a cakewalk by comparison. Yes, I'm not a natural birth proponent, nor am I a hater. During this labor, I found myself enjoying contractions and contemplated doing it au natural but was forced to get an epidural because my odds of a C-section were high. And then I ended up receiving general anesthesia so it was all a waste of spine poking.

But when birthing Miss Dub, I planned on getting an epidural and ended up getting one early because the anesthesiologist wanted to head home, and I was already dilated to a 4. And while I certainly could have endured the mild contractions for a few more hours, I was pretty happy to go all numb. Not only did the medication and catheter allow me to get my first long stretch of sleep without traipsing to the loo, but it relaxed me and gave me the energy to push for three hours.

When it was all over, I was up for a shower, eating and gazing adoringly at Miss Dub. I felt totally rejuvenated, as opposed to natural child birthers who are generally exhausted. (At least based on the all the childbirth videos I've seen, which are not doing a great job at selling people on natural childbirth with all that hooting and hollering.)

But I respect the desire to labor sans epidural. I just hate that many natural childbirth advocates are so anti-epidural. I mean, have a little love, people! There is no superior way to bring a child into earth. It's a personal decision.

And, please, I know it's been said a hundred times, but do these same people get dental work without Novicaine or endure a splitting migraine without some Aleve? Yeah, so lets put all our black kettles away, if you know what I'm saying.

So, what are your thoughts on labor?

And how crazy are people who request C-sections?

* For some retro heat on L&D, go here.

71 comments:

Anonymous said...: Oh so excited to leave my first comment on your blog. I have been a stalker for sometime now... And here we go...

I am one of those crazy people.

Granted, I had two little ones to birth, so it was more a math equation than anything else. I mean who would want to be recovering from BOTH a vaginal birth AND a C Section if Baby A and B decided to play hopscotch on their way out?

Regardless, that being said, I have never had the pleasure of a natural birth, so I can't really comment on the comparison.

BUT, I loved my C Section. I don't feel as though I was cheated of any "natural" experience in the birthing process... well, let's be honest, I was actually cheated out of a natural conception, but that's for another HTT.

Anyways, I am one of the crazies. I loved my C Section.; 7:59 AM
Ashby said...: I don't really have a strong opinion one way or the other. I've gone through two deliveries, and had two epidurals. One I got before I felt any pain. The other I got after too much pain, and too close to pushing, so it really didn't do anything but make my legs numb for hours after. My sister wanted an epi with her second child, but her labor went too fast, and she had to go without. She said she liked it so much more than having an epi, and would do it natural again in the future.

I like the option of being able to have an epi. I would have liked to have tried natural, but I don't feel like I failed in any way because I asked for one.

As for C-sections, I've always been so afraid of them. If I had a choice, I would choose natural over C-section any day.; 8:12 AM
Katrina said...: I haven't given birth yet, but I am pregnant so this is something I have been thinking about A LOT! Right now, I really want to try to go the natural route. I'm really scared of a c-section and with rates at around 30% I have a right to be worried. I am not morally opposed to epidurals but I have heard wonderful stories from people who have gone natural. And there is also evidence that with less intervention (epis, inductions, etc), the risk of c-section goes down. I'm not opposed to other forms of pain relief, but having a needle stuck in my spine and a catheter stuck you know where does not sound very appealing to me.
(But I totally reserve the right to change my mind once those hard contractions hit!); 8:25 AM
Laurel said...: I loooooOOOved getting an epidural...I have a very low threshold for pain so I needed it fast. As we were going to the hospital I was dilated to a 5 and talking pretty loudly to my DH (some might call it yelling) cause he was eating an omelet while driving and the smell was making me sick and it just seemed like he was driving sooooo slow...so I was telling him in my mean voice to throw the omelet and plate out the window and to drive faster...but the minute I was given the epidural I was in heaven.; 8:45 AM
Christen said...: I had my first baby with no epidural by choice and am glad I did it. I'm about 4 weeks away from delivering my second and am in the process of deciding what to do. Many people have told me the second time is usually faster, so I'm thinking I could do the natural thing again.

I'm on the other end of things -- I get people telling me all the time that I'm "crazy" for going without an epidural and it bugs so bad. I never tell people that they shouldn't get an epidural, so why do they think they can call me names? Ugh! And the whole "would you get a root canal done without anesthesia?" question has been said to me so many times it's annoying. I say do what you want since you're the one having the baby! (except the elective c-section does seem strange to me); 8:55 AM
Heather said...: I'm all about the epidural baby. My thoughts are why endured the pain when you could actually enjoy chatting with your hubby or whomever you choose to have in the room with you. You could actually take a little nap or a long one for that matter. I'm not against the au natural birthers but please don't throw your "I'm a better Mom b/c I felt every single contrax, ring of fire for X amount of hours" in my face. I'm just glad that you had a healthy baby.

I have no experience with c-sections but i think an elective c-section would be kinda nice in those last few weeks of miserable-ness.

You know who gets me all hot and bothered? The home birthers. YIKES!; 8:56 AM
Leisha Mareth said...: I don't "get" natural childbirth. I'm not opposed to it...I just reason with you...what other painful physical experience do we expect or admire people for going sans meds?; 9:05 AM
Jen said...: I wanted natural with my first but ended up with an epidural because I had been in labor 12 hours and I was just sick of it.

I'd still like to try it naturally because so many stories I read last time described it as an intense natural high, and they also said the recovery is much easier because you can walk out of the delivery room.; 9:12 AM
Alifinale said...: I don't love the idea of C-section but am thankful for the option if it means saving the baby or me. It is weird because I have found since moving here to Las Vegas that the majority of friends have had c-section and mostly not their first choice but because the Dr. recommended it. I think that is weird.

But I love epidurals and no offense to natural childbirthers (more power to you) but I think it is just silly to choose not to get one. I live at this time for a reason and that is so I can have an epidural and see and ultrasound of what I am having before the baby comes out.; 9:16 AM
Anonymous said...: I had my daughter without meds and at home.....so I'm on the complete other side of the crazy spectrum! But I loved it and don't plan on doing it any other way, as long as everything checks out ok as it did with baby number one. I felt very in control and empowered by my decision and I was surprised that what I felt wasn't pain. Don't get me wrong, it was the hardest, most intense experience of my life, but it felt managable and, well, natural. There were a few times during labor when I was thinking, "What in the *!*?@# were you thinking, having a baby at home---there are no meds here!?!?" But when it was all said and done I was happy with my decision. I don't think it matters how babies are brought into this world, I just think it is important that women understand that they have options and they can give birth anywhere and under any circumstance that they feel comfortable. And we as women should support each other regardless of how we choose to give birth beacuse we all know how it feels to be cut down and critized while we are trying to make the best decisions for our families.; 9:26 AM
Sarah S said...: Your picture with this post is hilarious.

I had an emergency c-section after two days of horrible labor (mostly suffering at home before going in to the hospital). I wouldn't inflict what I went through on anyone, even people I don't like! My baby had fetal distress every time I pushed (and was facing up instead of down, making it even harder), so I eventually ended up with an emergency c-section.

Going through labor, pushing, and eventual c-section is NOT fun. I had a miserable recovery and felt really disappointed that I had to have the surgery.

I will say - I am so thankful for c-sections in these cases where the mother or baby are having problems, but the elective c-section is just bizarre to me.

Next time I am hoping to do a VBAC. But it scares me a little that it could end up this way all over again...; 9:36 AM
Elisa said...: I have actually had my babies both ways... natural and epi. With my first, the Dr made me feel like such a failure because I ended up getting an epidural. He told me it would be a "much more spiritual" if I would have the baby the way God intended for me to have it... naturally. Uhh. He was on crack! Cause baby #2 I did have natural (not by choice btw) and it was so NOT more spiritual. I was mean and yelled at everyone a lot... AND if the truth be told, I don't remember very much from the whole birthing experience! So, baby#3 came along and I had those drugs pumped into me the moment I walked into my room. It was heaven. I slept, I watched the war in Iraq unfold... just a nice, pleasant birth.
So, meds all the way for me, baby. I don't care if you choose not to have the meds, just don't make me feel like a failure for choosing to have a different experience.
And I agree with an earlier poster... I seriously DO NOT GET those home birthers...; 9:40 AM
liz said...: I feel lucky to have been able to have all four of mine natural -- I have a pretty good tolerance for pain and my labor is FAST. It doesn't look anything like one of those scary natural childbirth videos. My hair doesn't even get messed up. Each time I've had between 5 and 20 minutes where I've thought "Why did I do this?" and then it's over.

After my first baby, I knew I'd never need an epidural, and why get a needle in your spine if you don't need it? I always think the insurance company should give me some kind of rebate (I think an epi costs around $1000?).

As for why people do it natural, there are lots of philosophical/cultural reasons, but it's worth it to me because it is empowering -- maybe a little like running a marathon for some people, which would be scary and insane for me personally -- you feel like you really did something.

I don't have any gripe with people who choose to have an epidural, especially if your labor is long. Totally a personal choice. The one down side to not having one is that if you need any repair (which I always do) they have to give you a local for it, and the doctor is typically used to stitching someone up who can't feel a thing. I can feel a thing, and sometimes it's not too pleasant.; 10:04 AM
annie said...: ok, so I've had 6 babies "au natural". It's pretty much the worst thing ever, I start dreading labor at 20 weeks gestation. I know that I can do it, but NEXT time I am doing the drugs!; 10:06 AM
Morgan said...: i don't have strong opinions either way. my labor with my first baby was approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes long, i got the epidural with 10 minutes to spare. if i had known it would have been that fast, i probably wouldn't have gotten it. the nurse kept telling me, i really think you can do it without the epidural, (i was pretty calm when i walked in practically fully dilated), but i was in pain, and i did what i wanted in the moment, and it wore off really fast, and as weird as this sounds, i enjoyed having a catheter, as i was a little scared to get out of bed for fear doing more damage than was already done down there!

but... i am due in 6 weeks with my second, and if things are moving as quickly as they did with my first, i will probably go without. call me crazy, but i kind of want to know how painful it really is, and i have heard that recovery is a breeze. plus, 10 minutes of pain relief for $800 does seem a little silly. but you never know what you're going to do in the moment, so we'll see. it's really not one of those HUGE decisions for me.

home births to me... it's not so much the fact that they are doing it without epidural, on their living room floor, as it is the fact that ANYTHING could go wrong and how scary would that be? but if you feel good about it, whatever!

c-section... glad they are there for emergencies, but hope i never have to have one!!; 10:07 AM
k8shoe said...: I decided to try to go natural because my mom had done it with 8 kids, so I figured I should at least see if I could do it. I went into the hospital with the mindset that I would try it naturally but if I couldn't bear it, that I would ask for the epidural (all though the needle really scares me more than going natural). I didn't have a choice because when the nurse first checked me, I was at a 10 and ready to push. My second labor was even faster and so it was an easy decision to go natural again (ok, it wasn't my decision because it was time to push as soon as I got in the room). And then came my third. I thought for sure I would have him on the way to the hospital. Not even close. Instead, my labor was 6 hours and I came REALLY close to asking for an epidural but right when I was about to, he decided to come out. Basically, I think I was given great genetics and don't know if I could have a natural baby if I didn't have quick labors. I will say that anyone who doesn't have any medical reasons not to, should attempt to go naturally just for the natural high that you feel afterwards. Yes, I was exhausted after it wore off but I recovered really quickly and wanted to go home after a couple of hours of being there (I can't sleep in those hospital beds).

About the elective C-sections, I don't understand that but I do think everyone's entitled to their own choice. Same with home-birthers....I for one would not want that memory of pain and such to be associated with my sancutary but if they're ok with it then that's great. Basically do what feels good to you, ya know? But don't try and make people feel bad for what feels good for them.; 10:11 AM
sara said...: Seriously, where did you find that picture??

I've done both. I mean vag & c-. Not natural. I've heard mostly only the best stories about people's natural birthing experiences, but even if I considered braving the pain (which I wouldn't), I would NEVER consider doing it at home. Too many things can go wrong. My first two kids were each born vaginally with epidurals; both great. With my twins I had to have a c-section because of their positioning, which I fought up until 1/2 hr before they cut me open; I was so worried about the recovery (especially consider that I was giving birth to twins, and had two toddlers at home already). BUT - it was scheduled, I came into it with a full night's rest, totally prepared, and wide awake for the whole thing. My recovery wasn't too bad; a little more sore of course and WOW you sure use abdomenal muscles for EVERYTIHNG don't you?

My doc did a great job, my scar is hardly visible, so I'm all set for my next round of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit shots (ha). That said, anyone who chooses a c-section because they think it's easier or something, is crazy.; 10:15 AM
Amanda said...: I have never had a baby or been pregnant. But I have had surgery for cysts/endo reasons and the first surgery I had was basically a C-section incision. The recovery was AWFUL (without a baby to care for even!), the anesthesia made me completely nauseous, and I was out of it for a few weeks after the surgery. After that experience I would do anything at all possible to not have to have a C-section for baby delivery...!; 10:16 AM
Page said...: Although not vehemently opposed to the epidural, I am very much in favor of going all natural. For those who don't "get" natural childbirth, let me explain why I do "get" it.

I wanted to be very involved in the birth of my child rather than having medical professionals or medication doing the work. Yes, I wanted to suffer for my baby. I think there's something symbolic and beautiful about suffering a great deal to bring a life into the world. I feel that it allowed me to better understand how and why Someone suffered so much to give me the gift of life.

My baby was able to latch on and breastfeed right away despite his small size; a feat that the nurses said would have been impossible had my child been affected by pain meds or the epidural.

I also felt WONDERFUL after giving birth all natural. I was walking around right afterwards, feeling happy and uplifted that I had achieved my goal. I would recommend it to everyone. We can do hard things!! Especially when they bring such wonderful results.; 10:42 AM
LCM said...: My first labor was 24 hours long and started out 5 minutes apart. I suffered for 17 hours and only progressed to 1.5cm. They wanted to send me home. I did get a few shots of narcotics, don't ever do that! Then I dilated to 10 in 1.5 hours, unmedicated. Not cool. I was in so much pain and I have a pretty high threshhold. The doc was needed for emergency c-section. So, I got to have an epidural. After the birth I felt exhausted and abused. DD#2, I progressed to 4cm with a few mild pangs and I went straight for the epidural because I didn't want to go through that again. I had such a good birth, I would go through L&D again any time with that experience. I do have a good part of delivery. I pushed my first out in 20 minutes and my 2nd out in 25 minutes, even though they accidentally gave me more epidural medicine right before I started pushing and she was 10.5lbs and face up!; 10:45 AM
melissa walker said...: My mother-in-law is an ob/gyn out in Utah--she delivers around 35-40 babies a month and in her experience, mothers who have an epidural are much more relaxed and happy and ready to bond with their baby first thing. There are women who truly are just blessed with easy labors and natural birth is nothing. I think you can go into it wanting natural, but keep your options open for an epidural and be prepared in the case of a c-section. No matter how well you prepare your body, it may still have to happen.
I ended up having my first baby c-section after failure to progress( my mother-in-law delivered him). We decided with the other two to have c-sections based on the risk of uterine rupture--the risk is small, but it can mean death. WE didn't want to risk that 1%.
I am all for the attitude--whatever is best for baby and mom. I recover pretty well from the c-section. I think it's the extra days of rest in the hospital. I send the baby to the nursery and night and enjoy 3 full nights of sleep before I have to be mom all night at home!
By the way--YOU are doing a fantastic job with all you've been through--keep up the fun topics and lively debates!; 11:00 AM
Anonymous said...: I think this is a great debate because people are being nice to each other;-) How refreshing!!! But, the funny thing I have noticed is that it is the epidural fans who are more "lively" than the natural people. I don't have any kids, or opinions, but it does seem the epidural bunch is a bit more feisty.; 11:21 AM
Kate said...: I'm just another stalker, and I love your blog, by the way. I feel like I know you even though I don't.

I had my first without medication with a midwife. I guess maybe I'm a control freak, but I didn't want some doctor telling me what to do... don't get me wrong, I trust doctors to a certain extent, but they don't know everything, and they're so afraid of malpractice lawsuits (and rightfully so) that they tend to send people in for c-sections more often then is really needed. I think home birthers want to be in charge of their own birth experience and home is the only place you can really do that.

I wanted to avoid an epidural for several reasons, I wanted to be able to move myself around (who wants to feel like a beached whale anymore than you already do at 9 months pregnant?) plus I didn't want to labor on my back therefor increasing the risk of needing a c-section.

But here's the truth... the labor was awful. The baby was face up, I was slow to progress, and I was so exhausted that I had no magical experience bonding with my baby after birth like I imagined. The whole thing was just a painful blur. Plus I didn't just jump up and walk around after... there was major damage down there... I didn't walk comfortably for weeks, so I'm thinking an epidural would have been nice.

I won't lie though, I felt like
I had accomplished some great feat, I liked knowing that I could do something women have been doing for thousands of years.

People have such different experiences in child birth that it's just impossible for anyone to think they know what anyone else should do.

Has anyone tried a water birth?; 11:44 AM
Queen Elizabeth said...: Epidurals all the way. I'd have one right now and I'm DONE having children! (I have three and the youngest is almost 3.)

I don't care what people do either but I truly hate it when people who gave birth "naturally" (sorry, but I seriously think there is little about giving birth that is "natural"!!!!) act like they deserve some kind of metal on their chest.

I say good job just getting another human into the world... however you do it!; 11:49 AM
Unknown said...: Baby #1-labored at home for a long time before going to the hospital and humiliatingly walking the halls while I had amniotic fluid dripping down my legs and having to stop in the hallway in complete pain for contractions and everyone looking at me like "how sweet". Not sweet! Finally got the epidural about an hour before delivery, it did nothing but relax me and my urge to push.

Baby #2-I was induced, and had very intense back labor, the worst ever. Thought I was going to literally scream at my doctor, dad, and husband as they stood and watched the end of a D-backs game while waiting for the epidural. Once I got the epidural, it was pure bliss.

Baby #3-Induced again, got the epidural pretty much as soon as I started feeling contractions. Relaxed, took a nap, watched TV, didn't even notice the baby was practically falling out and I had to literally hold my legs together and not laugh until the doctor got there.

So, I like the epidural, as it saves the humiliation of having to walk the halls, and the terrible back labor. However, my third epidural was the only one I had ever felt the needle go in and it struck a little nerve and made me jump, ouch. And I always get really nervous because it takes so long for me to get the feeling back in my legs. And my babies are a little freaky b/c they have the cords wrapped around their necks, 2, 4, and 3 times respectively. So I'm really nervous the last month of pregnancy and during labor and the epidural relaxes me so much.

Sorry that was so long. Isn't it weird how we LOVE to tell our labor stories?; 12:26 PM
zeeny said...: Well, I have given birth twice without drugs but I would never get my teeth drilled without drugs. Two different categories. One...natural how the Lord intended, the other, drill in tooth, I don't think is natural! I am not opposed to epidurals. I think every woman is different and if my labors were super long I might not do it without drugs. I actually am the only one in my family who does it without drugs and most of them think I'm crazy. I actually don't scream though...I'm pretty quiet.
I decided to try with my first daughter without drugs and I did it. I think I learned a lot about myself in the process as well. I told my husband that I always thought people who had children without drugs were superwomen. He replies...see they aren't. I was quick to let them know they are superwomen and I was a superwoman too! I say do whatever floats your boat. The pain of labor goes away almost instantly once you push a child out... I was able to eat, gaze at said child, and walk to the recovery room all within an hour. I loved both of my experiances but realize it isn't for everyone.
I kind of laugh when women say they want to try natural but if it gets too painful they will get drugs...guess what, it will get too painful! You just have to realize that this too shall pass and what comes in the end is rewarding. I have never had so much empowerment in my life than I do after I realized I did something so hard.
I told that I am crazy for having natural labor often but I never tell someone they are crazy for using drugs. It is so personal!
I do think it is odd to pick to have a c-section but hey, if that's what you want, you deserve it!; 12:45 PM
Colleen said...: I don't judge either way, but I went natural with my first. My reasons?

~I was raised to be wary of medications and the negative effects they can have on your body.

~I worked for a doctor who has treated women with horrible back pain for years. It is his professional opinion that epidurals can cause major side effects (back pain, migraines) that aren't usually discussed.

~I was much more afraid of someone sticking a needle in my spine than a few hours of pain.

~I was at a six by the time I got to the hospital and still hadn't felt a thing. Either I've got some crazy pain tolerance or it just wasn't that bad for me (to that point). Seven and a half hours later I was starting to rethink my decision, but I had a very supportive nurse who told me that I only had about half an hour left. It gave me the endurance to get through the rest of it.

So yeah, I'm proud of myself for doing it sans medication, but my labor was relatively short. I didn't really see it as a "spiritual experience" until I saw my beautiful, slimy, healthy little boy.; 12:58 PM
Melanie M. McKinnon said...: i can't imagine wanting to request a c-section. i like to be able to hold my baby immediately after pushing them out. i also like to try and breastfeed within an hour or two of delivering and i've been able to with both babies so far and really enjoyed it. especially since i can never breastfeed past 3 weeks on account of my ppd.

you make sure you keep takin care of yourself, missy!; 12:58 PM
Unknown said...: My story is identical to "Sarah S". 2-day labor, epidural that was gone by the time I pushed, stuck baby, & an emergency c-section. I remember trying to walk around the hospital 2 days after the surgery, bent almost in half, and almost passing out, while at the same time seeing another mom who delivered that day casually walking around with her baby.

It was at that point that I realized the real difference between c-sections and delivery. I think if you knew the difference, you'd be crazy to choose c-section. Although I hear scheduled c-s are much more enjoyable than emergency ones.; 1:17 PM
Charlotte said...: I can't believe no one has mentioned hypnobirthing! With my first 2, my labor (at the hospital) always goes so quick, I don't have time for an epidural until it is too late (tried twice- too late both times- I am fully dilated when it takes effect). So with my 3rd, I wanted no pain. I mean, anyone can grit their teeth and scream through labor... women have done that for centuries before pain medication was invented. I wanted a birth with complete control, where my husband was involved, with no pain. What did I find? Hypnobirthing. My husband was totally against it- he thought it was a bunch of freaks and only tried it because he didn't want to see me the way I was with the first two (I always wished I had done something different- gotten to the hospital faster... called the anesthesiologist before I got there- SOMETHING.)Now he is the biggest proponent.
It was the most beautiful thing ever. I was not exhausted. It didn't take longer. I pushed maybe 3 times (Oh- did I mention I was so relaxed I almost had him in the bathtub? Oops... my husband carried me to the bed because I am NOT one of those crazy ppl that do that.) It was the 2nd hypnobirth in that hospital. Nurses were coming in and out the whole time (I didn't notice) because they couldn't believe it. I got up with my husband and washed the baby afterwards. It was an amazing bonding experience and NO PAIN! It's the best.; 2:21 PM
Anonymous said...: I'm curious, what is hypnobirthing, exactly? I mean, I know what it is sort of, but what does it entail?; 2:32 PM
Anonymous said...: C sections terrify me! The idea of feeling people's hands inside of me even if there's no actual pain freaks me out! I got my epidural 30 minutes after my water broke because the nurse said I would probably want it soon anyways (I knew I was going to get it, I just didn't know when to ask). I loved it! I loved being able to hang out with my family and laugh and joke around! I also loved being able to sleep since I was having painful contractions at home for 24 hours and couldn't sleep through them. When my midwife said I needed a c section since my sweet babe wasn't coming down and I wasn't dialating I was devistated! I felt like I was being screwed out of an experience I wanted and I was really scared. Thankfully, my dear husband and father-in-law were there to give me a blessing of peace. Then I was mentally prepared to have the surgery. 5 minutes before going in, midwifey checked one last time and I had gone from 4 centimeters (where I had been for more than 4 hours) to 7 1/2 cen. in an HOUR! What a testimony builder for me! Then I got to have the birthing experience I had hoped for!; 2:35 PM
Anonymous said...: I've had 3 kids but have never even heard of hypnobirthing until your comment, Charlotte. Sounds interesting.

As for me...I am ALL about the epdiurals. I've had one with each of my 3 girls. One was very early on, one was pretty late, and one in the middle. I guess I am pretty wimpy, but I can't do it without the drugs. I think I would probably die. For reals.

As far as c-sections, ugh! I had my first baby vaginally and it went well, my second was an emergency c-section after 24 hours of labor, and my third was a delightful, easy VBAC. My c-section was BAD. It was so painful. I couldn't sit up in bed to nurse my new baby for an entire week. I had to have my hubby wake up, pull me up into a sitting position, then pick up and hand me our new baby. And she ate every 2 hours! It was so awful and I felt so helpless. I was stuck in the hospital for 4 days eating only beef broth and cherry popsicles because I couldn't pass gas! Hello...give me some real food so that I can have gas to pass! I know...TMI. But it was just an awful experience, largely because I thought I would have my baby vaginally after so many hours of painful labor (I didn't get the epidural until hour 15). She was born at 7:30am and I didn't get to hold her until around 11. Annoying for sure.

Even if you have a great c-section, you still can't stand up straight for a week, can't take baths for a few weeks, can't drive for 2 weeks, can't pick up anything heavier than 10 pounds, and you still have all kinds of stuff going on "down there", even if it isn't painful in that region. I completely don't understand who would WANT a c-section. Having a baby is huge enough. Who wants to have major surgery on top of that?; 2:41 PM
Anonymous said...: I LOVE the graphic. If only!; 3:09 PM
Emma said...: I think it is a individual decision, but I prefer to not have an epidural. I don't understand elective C-sections or at home births, but that's their choice.
I went into my first delivery not having a clue how to relax myself. So after several hours of pain I got an epidural. It stopped my labor. I hated that. I was bored, and tired, I slept, and my poor husband felt useless. I had to get pitocin, which means I couldn't walk around any more. It was awful. I didn't know how hard to push. If I had not gotten the epidural I probably would have had him several hours earlier.

#2 was better, but still not ideal. I had to be induced, so I was stuck in my room, but I did get to walk around the room, and labor in different positions (rocking chair, birthing ball, sitting in the bed etc.) My doctor assured me that I wouldn't be any less of a woman if I got an epidural. I agree, but that's not what a I wanted. I was already being induced - they had to start my dosage over again after 4 hours because I wasn't progressing very fast.

I could not have done it natural without my husband. He was such a great support. It was hard (I had back labor), but I plan on going natural again with the next one. Hopefully I won't have to be induced, and I can use the Jacuzzi tub next time!; 3:10 PM
sara said...: I'm also very curious about what hypnobirthing is! Can't believe I've never heard of that before...; 3:26 PM
Anonymous said...: I find it interesting when people say they don't need the "natural" people acting they like deserve a medal or something... or they are better for not getting an epidural. I have never come across someone like that. In fact, it's usually the ones who get epidurals who are first to say you HAVE to get an epidural or you're CRAZY for going natural. Let people do what they want!; 3:58 PM
Anonymous said...: This is also my first comment on your blog. Thanks for the great HTT.

I agree with Zeeny. I don't like comparing childbirth to having surgery or dental work done... and saying 'duh, why wouldn't you get the meds?', because childbirth is a natural process of which your body will heal itself. Labor is SUPPOSED to happen, (unlike a dentist drilling a hole in your jaw) and your body knows what it's doing.

However, I was only in labor for 6 hours before my baby girl was born naturally, and I'm not sure I could've taken much more. So for those with 18-20 hour labors, I don't blame 'em for taking drugs!; 4:09 PM
Carrie said...: I've had a vaginal deliver with #1 and c section with #2, and will probably request a c section for my next baby. I recovered SSSSOOOOO much better after my c section. In just days I was feeling GREAT(in fact, we moved when baby #2 was only a week old). My vaginal delivery was a tearing/episiodimy NIGHTMARE! Not to mention I wasn't fully dilated and the doctor had to pretty much RIP daughter out with foreceps. Both my kids were posterior with cord wrapped twice and had very intense intances of their heart rates dropping with every contraction (I know this is normal, but whatever, with my kids both docs thought it was serious enough to warrent EXTREME measures to get them birthed). So basically, I'm not holding out hope that my next delivery will be different and am circumventing the stress and pain of labor.

Call me crazy... I don't care. To me, its all about self preservation. This is what worked best for me. Don't judge. I chose the knife, baby!

PS Mrs Dub, hope you are feeling a little better every day. Your family is in my prayers.; 4:36 PM
Carina said...: I don’t like epidurals.

As a matter of fact…I have had dental work done without Novocain and I rarely take pain medications when I have headaches or other aches.

However, this is a function of how I react to pain medications, rather than a value judgment. I hate how pain meds make me feel (ironic, no?) To me, the side effects of pain medications are worse than the pain itself.

I resolved, after an epidural with my first, that I would never, ever, ever, no never have one again.

I have so far been successful—I had a small spinal with my second. Getting the spinal was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done because I didn’t want to have anything. Accepting that I needed to, for a variety of reasons, including relaxing my pelvis so the baby would descend; offering up my will was an act of sacrifice.

I just hate that so many c-sections are for lazy reasons—the mother isn’t lazy, the medical practitioner is. They’re covering their butts, not thinking of the health implications for mother and child. It’s too interventionist!

Primary elective c-sections boggle me; you mean you won’t even try? Not even with the overwhelming evidence of the hazards of a C vs. regular labor? Okie, your body.

Avoiding a c-section is so important to me it was my first question when finding a practitioner to delivery my second child: What is your c-section rate? After finding out that my midwives had a rate of 8%, EIGHT PERCENT compared to the statewide average of 25%, I was sold. I think a low intervention practitioner who isn't scared of labor process is ideal. Midwives rock.; 4:46 PM
Carrie said...: And to Jamie, (just read the rest of the comments)... not trying to contradict you, but I could stand up fine by the time I left the hospital (after only three days) and I drove after my csection, you can't drive if you are taking the heavy duty pain killers, but I only needed ibuprofen to feel good, so I was okay to drive.

And Abby, I passed out with my vaginal delivery NOT my c section. I was actually down longer with my vaginal delivery than my c section.

Its crazy how people can have such different experiences that you would think would be more similar than not. I think its naive to think that just because you had a bad c section that moms who CHOOSE to have them did too and are CHOOSING the pain, etc. If I did that I would assume that everyone having a vaginal delivery was insane because I NEVER felt 'fully recovered' after that experience.; 4:48 PM
Mrs. Dub said...: carrie,

first, welcome.

second, i don't think you're crazy because you had a c-section due to medical problems; and that you'll request one next time because of the deliveries you endure.

but people like britney spears (oh troubled soul) who request them because they are afraid of labor might need a little lesson on the pain of recovering from major surgery ...

because in the end, there is no such thing as a totally painless pregnancy or labor.

and there's no one right way for everyone - just a right way for each person.

amen.; 6:46 PM
The Rookie said...: Let me begin by saying ya'll are champs. I've birthed nuttin' and don't plan to any time soon and already, I'm dreading childbirth. Perhaps it is the passing around of battle wounds and war stories from the Labor & Delivery front.

So, in my humble, gestation-less, much more removed opinion: you do what works for you and your baby. I am glad there are so many options to ensure a positive end result.; 7:59 PM
Michelle said...: I was really curious to know what hypnobirthing was too, so I looked it up here at Discovery Health. Sounds interesting.; 8:38 PM
Anonymous said...: I won't get an epidural again. Ever. And I am a person who will take medication for even the slightest headache.

I got an epidural with both of my kids and have experienced the worst lower back pain imaginable ever since.

The whole epidural process was ridiculous, as well, because both times it took about two hours for the guy to get it in right. That's a whole lot of back pricking and a whole lot of pain- especially when I'd push the baby out 10 minutes after it finally started working.

I would rather endure the pain than go through that again. My back has never been the same.; 9:09 PM
MB said...: My friend just had her second baby. Both vaginal, the first with epidural and this one natural because she wanted to try it. She has been insistent that, "If I have a third I will not make THAT mistake again. That hurt like #@(*&$!"

I loved my epidural. I could still feel and move my legs but without the excruciating pain I had early in the labor. I loved my birth experience and I guess that's what matters.; 9:26 PM
Leslie said...: I've had three sections, the first was an emergency, they had my baby out in 4 minutes because of her distress. i chose to have the other 2, although went into labor both times a week before my scheduled surgery. i chose the Cs for the same reason mentioned here "We decided with the other two to have c-sections based on the risk of uterine rupture--the risk is small, but it can mean death. WE didn't want to risk that 1%."

csections totally suck, but it's all i've known. i had a friend whose uterus ruptured during a VBAC and she ended up bleeding so badly that the only way to get her to stop was to do an emergency hysterectomy. at the age of 27. totally freaked me out, so i chose the C.

oh, and i think people like britney spears choose c-sections so they don't infect their babies with whatever yuckiness they most likely all have goin on down there. if you catch my drift.; 10:09 PM
Kelley Bochman Smith said...: I would want an epidual, I only hada them with the 2 c-sections, the first 3 deliverys were not fun, long labor and creepy men doctors who just wanted to watch an "important" game on TV with Mr. Fabulous . Many thanks to Michelle for reserching the "hypnobirthing"! I emailed a pregnant daughter who might need that ALONG WITH an epidual! TO EACH HIS OWN!!!!!!; 10:31 PM
Jenny said...: ack - i've been wanting to comment here all day. hopefully i'm not too tired now to make any sense. :)

like others have said, it's a personal decision. i think it's a good idea for women to educate themselves. find out what your options are, along with the benefits and risks associated w/ those options. don't just talk to your doctor. read up. i don't think "what to expect" really counts. i'd suggest, "pregnancy, childbirth, and the newborn" by penny simkin. great book.

anyway . . . c-sections terrify me. i can't imagine being awake for the surgery; just the thought makes me sick. really. so for me, the best option is to do everything i can do to stay far away from c-sections. i've had my four kids without pain medication and can back up what liz and page (i think it was them) said about the natural experience. it's been great for me.

i've thought a lot about a home birth and don't think it's crazy at all - if you have a low-risk pregnancy. honestly, the majority of labors and deliveries do not have problems or complications. especially when they're not "managed." i think the moment a baby comes into this world is an amazing experience. a new little person coming to earth - it's spiritual. i don't think it's crazy to want that wonderful, personal experience to happen in your home instead of a hospital. that said, i do not want the job of cleaning up after a birth, and i adore my dr., so i won't likely be going the home route anytime soon.

before my last baby was born, i read up on the hynobirthing method and tried to incorporate some of the ideas into my relaxation during labor and delivery. i think it really helped.

(it's really hard to do a short comment on this topic - and really, i felt like almost everything had been said and mine would be short. rats.); 10:54 PM
Nash said...: The celebs opt for c-sections to prevent bad stretch marks. At least this is what I read somewhere.; 1:38 AM
Holly said...: i went natural with my first, and had an epidural with my second. i was totally out of it after the epidural and i couldn't walk. don't get me wrong, the painless labor was lovely as was my nap!! but i am going natural with my next.

and just for the record, i wasn't exhausted after 46 hours of natural labor and birth. it was amazing. and hard.

also for the record, i'm not a hater of those who choose medication. i think that the mother should decide what she wants with no judgement from anyone. that's why i think it's very important to educate oneself so that one is capable of doing so, and not the doctor.

and, i love that picture by the way.; 2:17 AM
Martin Vennard said...: Hi, I work on an international discussion programme on BBC World Service radio in London and today (Wednesday) between 1pm and 2pm East Coast time in the States we are talking about dealing with pain and are especially interested in hearing from people who believe strongly in the use of things such as epidurals and pain killers. I was wondering if you would be interested in taking part in our discussion. If so, please send me your phone numbers to martin.vennard@bbc.co.uk and I will call you back.

Many Thanks

Martin Vennard
BBC World Service radio.; 7:32 AM
A Mom Two Boys said...: Along the lines of your "Aleve" train of thought, my thoughts have always been this:

Thousands of years ago, women did't have microwaves. Does that mean that we shouldn't use them today because they did it without them? I think not.

Coincidentally, this post has brought up some VERY STRONG opinions and discussion. Keep in mind it's written by a man...http://www.babble.com/CS/blogs/strollerderby/archive/2008/02/11/childbirth-it-s-called-the-natural-for-a-reason.aspx

Glad you're recovering well from the C. Hope you're "feeling" well also.; 10:36 AM
Rachie said...: I totally think I could deliver without any meds...I am pretty tough when it comes to pain. However, I totally chose meds when I delivered the twins. It was sooooooo nice!; 12:43 PM
Anonymous said...: I went epidural free with my baby and it was the most difficult thing I have done. I see why anyone would want one. It was hard enough that I am still not sure if the cost outweighed the benefit or vice versa. I do know however, that anyone can go epidural free if that is what they REALLY want. I am definitely not "anti-epidural" and have only met one mother is is (out of the thousands out there). I don't even know if I will go without one next time. I do however feel somewhat criticized by all those who have had epidurals. And before having children, I heard the most negativity and pressure from the "pro-epidural" bunch. Comments such as, "who does she think she is, mother of the year?" "does she want a medal or something", "she must be totally granola". They often seem critical and almost rude about others' decision to go natural. I too believe that it is a personal decision. I would be careful about what is said in your blog or conversations with others... I think you might come on stronger than you realize.
If I had any advice for anyone I would tell them just do what you want to do and what is best for you and the baby, and that includes a C-section.; 12:46 PM
Jenn said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; 12:58 PM
Anonymous said...: I definitely second the anonymous comment just made. I have never had children, but would like to do it naturally. I don't have strong feelings one way or another about which is best. BUT I do know that when I mention that I don't want drugs, epidural fans are quite rude. Who knows what will happen because I haven't had a baby yet and experienced that pain. But I do know that the "natural people" are very friendly and don't think they are all that just because they went drug free, they are simply supporting a cause they believe in. It often times seems to me that the people who had epidurals are just jealous of those who can make it without and that is why the rude and often time hurtful comments are made. But then again, there are PLENTY of people who have epidurals and are REALLY kind towards natural mommies. I just know that for me personally, anytime I make rude comments about people successes is because insecurities or feelings of inadequecy are brought up. Just food for thought.; 1:03 PM
JenSwen said...: It's so true - women love to tell their labor and delivery stories!

I had a (late) epidural and I LOVED it. I experienced zero numbness, only pain relief, my labor wasn't delayed, and I didn't have to wear a catheter (in fact, before reading these comments I had never heard of catheters being used with epidurals). I still felt a VERY STRONG urge to push when the time came, and it only took about 15 minutes of pushing to get the baby out. I wanted to walk out of the delivery room but they made me use a wheelchair for liability reasons, which kind of annoyed me at the time. I felt that post-delivery "high" that natural birthers were alluding to for a couple of days afterward. Looking back, I wonder if my anesthesiologist was just exceptionally good, and if I will possibly be able to get her again for my next delivery! Anyway, based on my experience, I definitely want the epidural next time and I'm crossing my fingers that it will work as perfectly as it did for my first delivery.; 2:05 PM
Kate said...: I had an epidural with baby #1, and I ended up with some serious complications (paralysis in one leg for 3 months). It was super hard to be handicapped; I really could barely walk without falling flat on my face. Even though it was a "freak accident," I was scared to get an epidural again.
I didn't completely rule it out, but with babies #2 & #3 I decided to wait and see how I felt... and both times I asked for pain meds or an epidural when it was too late and the babies popped out moments later. I have a really high tolerance for pain... so natural seems to be the way to go for me.
I didn't do it to prove anything... and I don't think I brag about birthing my babies without pain meds. I'm just a little scared of the epidural from personal experience. I felt AWESOME immediately following the births of babies #2 & #3. I could eat and drink while laboring and right after birthing the babes. In contrast, I couldn't even keep down the ice chips with my epidural and couldn't keep anything down for about 24 hours afterwards.
We obviously all love talking about this... I feel EXACTLY the same way as Liz who commented above. There's a small window of pretty intense pain, and then the stitching up afterwards is a bit freaky when you can feel every poke! Luckily that only happened to me with baby #2.; 3:10 PM
go boo boo said...: I would never have asked for a c-section, but I've had 3/3 because of medical reasons. The first c-section recovery was definitely the worst! #2 & #3 I just milked the painkillers and could walk standing up within a few days.; 4:59 PM
mrs. dph said...: Just gave birth on Monday to our fifth child. My next youngest is 4 so I had forgotten how EFFECTIVE epidurals are. It was so great, I literally wanted to name the baby Eppy. I had dilated to a 6 and was having those awful contractions that just kill your back when I got the epidural. And the rest of the experience went very smoothly. I'm profoundly grateful for modern medicine.; 6:42 PM
wendysue said...: Whatever people choose, I love what my good friend Lisa always says. . "there are NO gold medals handed out". I figure whatever works for people, whatever they choose is fine.; 6:54 PM
Wonderland Girl said...: Me likey the epidural.

I unfortunately had very similar experiences to you as I had one fairly easy labor and delivery with baby #1. Went to Wal-Mart the next day (minus baby, super weird) but I felt like a CHAMP.
Baby #2 ended up C-section and as the pregnancy itself was even much more uncomfortable than the previous time, I was that much more ready to be DONE. After the unexpected C-section I felt WORSE than before #2 was born, which was so disappointing as I was so excited to feel better. Shower water hurt my incision area for a long time. Ouch. Don't know about those people who request a giant cut across their stomach. :); 8:34 AM
mama bear said...: Okay, I think the term "natural" should just mean you pushed the baby out of your body and survived - whether you had drugs or not. I tried to have epidurals for both my kiddos, neither one worked and I'll still try again with my next one (due in April) because I. Hate. Pain. If you don't choose to have an epi though, I highly recommend the nitrous oxide mask when the pain is too much to handle. Oh and one more thing... I still haven't forgotten the pain, even though they say you will. It doesn't make me love my kids any less, but you better believe I'll be using it for blackmail when they are older!; 12:37 PM
Charlotte said...: Oops... I didn't peek back and the comments to see that other ppl were asking about my comment.
Have you ever had this happen. You drive to work the same way every day and one day you get to work and realize you don't remember any of the drive? That was self-hypnosis. Your body and mind were so well trained, you didn't have to do any work. Hypnobirthings works pretty much the same way. You train your body to do it with visualizations. You are not "asleep" or "in a trance." I also find it very similar to a runner's high.; 12:41 PM
Laura and the family said...: Since I have been reading what others have to share about their opinion with C-Section, I am sure you understand that it is all depend on the circumstance.

With my first child, I did make an effort to deliver naturally after 22 hours of labor while I had a gestational diabetes. The head of my first child's was too big to get it through. After an hour and a half of struggling, I gave up. So I had a C-Section Emergency. However, one thing the doctor did not realize the epidural had worn out. Can you image that I could feel the sharp ? So, they had to kick my husband and the sign language interpreter out of the room, and gave me anesthesia. By the time, I delivered a first child, it was 9 lbs 12 oz since I'm a petite woman. The healing was slow after I had tried both natural and then had emergency C-Section.

Then I got pregnant six months later. Unexpectedly, I had a gestational diabetes again! This time, the doctor wanted to deliver a two week early because he was afraid that it would be a repeating pattern: having a large baby. With the Second baby, I thought it was best to avoid the repeating experience, I did request for a C-Section. Frankly, I healed a lot faster than the first one.

So from then on, it was easier for me to have a tubal ligament because I did not want to risk my health after I was diabetes-free.

So, I still feel that it would depend on woman's situation even I had never or will ever experience of giving a natural birth.; 11:17 PM
KT said...: Well, I'm pregnant with my first and my only question is: which way gets the baby out the fastest. So far, I hate being pregnant and I'm guessing labor isn't going to be much better. And what bugs me is everyone telling me to "enjoy" pregnancy. Gaining weight and puking are not things I typically enjoy. My friend said with her C-section her doctor gave her a mini tummy tuck. I'm all up for that, and while he's in there maybe he can scrape out some of that extra baby weight.; 2:09 PM
Amber (EyesofAmber) said...: I am one of those people who is absolutely terrified of having to have a c section. I've had all three of my boys vaginally, all three with different experiences.

With my first, the doctor stripped my membranes which caused a slow leak. By the time I got to the hospital the next morning my fluid levels were dangerous and his heart rate was low. I could have nothing for pain until the epidural, at which point they did an internal catheter for fluid infusion and an internal fetal monitor as well. (I then had to have a second epidural because all sensation returned) Thirteen hours from first contraction to birth, 42 minutes of pushing, and a first degree tear that did not require stitches. My nurse told me I should have a dozen kids.

Second baby was an iduction at 37wk 1 day. I was admitted at midnight and started on pitocin. I had two doses of staydol which made me crazy before I was dialated far enough for the epidural. At 5 pm I was still only five centimeters. My hubby called a friend who put us in touch with someone in the area who came by and assisted hubby in giving me a blessing. Baby arrived at 8:54 pm after 8 minutes of pushing. I don't know how many times during that 21 hours I told my husband we were done having children. (First two were 11.5 months apart!)

Baby number three came nearly three years later. I'd decided to go natural but couldn't find a local Bradley childbirth class and was not thrilled with Lamaze. I ended up just reading the Bradley book and giving it to my husband, who never did read as much of it as he should have...lol. I honestly do not know why I made the choice, but from the moment I found out I was pregnant, I knew that I needed to give this a shot. My water broke at 36wk 6d at 6:15 am. I was admitted around 8:30. I got through the first seven centimeters or so just fine with my husband's support, but the baby was face up. I started complaining some about the pain and they checked. I was at 9, but for some reason the resident and nurse decided to see if I could "push through it". Now that was painful. The doctor explained to me the next day that I had experienced a rare phenomenon where the pain caused by pushing actually exceeds the urge to push and the body will not push through it. This lovely idea caused my cervix to begin to close. My regular ob arrived and suggested that we do an epidural, give me some time to rest, and see how things were in half a hour. I had my epidural and napped for almost half an hour. The nurse came in to place my catheter and could feel the baby's head. The dr returned, I pushed once, which according to the nurse "spun the baby around like a top", then pushed again and he was out. Three weeks early, 8lb 3oz. My epidural was removed 1 hour after it was placed.

I honestly feel like the third birth was a much more spiritual relationship between my husband and myself. He was very surprised at how much I could handle, and I truly needed him to get me through it. I plan to go natural again with this one although I feel like that is SUCH a personal choice that I don't see how anyone can even think that it's okay to push their choice or opinion off on someone else.

Having said that, I think elective c sections are ridiculous when there is no medical reason to make that choice. I know people who've had long labors resulting in sections that chose to go the section route the next time around. I get that, it makes sense to me. People who've had an emergency c section and choose to have sections to avoid the risks of rupture, I get that too. I do not see anything wrong with anyone who's had a prior section opting for it the second time around. What I can't understand is people choosing it because they believe it is more convenient or easier.
As for the earlier remark about c sections to avoid bigger stretch marks, I would think that would only apply if they were delivering early, which is a whole 'nother can of worms.

Sorry so long, like several of you have said, we love to tell our labor and delivery stories.; 2:52 PM
Super B said...: Ok, so I don't think I have ever commented on your blog, but like to read it occasionally. At this time last week I was literally pushing my baby out. I had a WATER BIRTH. (Someone asked about that in an earlier comment and I am someone that has had a water birth.) I have always wanted to have an unmedicated birth. There are various reasons as many people have pointed out but I think the important thing is to educate yourself. We have these bodies that are made to do amazing things. I have been through a lot as far as fertility and reproductive medicine goes and it amazes me how little most women know about the whole process. I think knowledge is power and whatever route you choose is up to you. But, I think that there are a lot of women who don't educate themselves about their bodies and their options and all that. Anyhow, I took Bradley classes with my husband and that was very helpful. Just to know what to expect and how to HANDLE it. I had 18 hours of labor. I started having non-braxton hicks contractions at 4 in the morning. I labored at home until about 4:15 in the afternoon (my water had broken) and then went to the hospital. By the time I got there my blood pressure was high and so I had to labor in a bed strapped to monitors and a blood pressure cuff for a couple of hours. I finally got to get in the water and it was very nice. Water helps lower blood pressure, it helps relax you so that the labor can progress, it helps ease pain, it is less stresssful for baby, etc. Labor was painful but as my midwife kept telling me, it is pain with a purpose and the pain is normal. Labor is supposed to hurt. But, with the right techniques, I was able to handle it and allow the pain to do it's job. I do feel very empowered by the whole process and am glad that I let my body do what it was made to do. It was a powerful experience and even though it was painful, it was awesome. I am not putting anyone down who has had epidurals or c-sections, but like many people have said, it is often those that have epidurals and other pain meds that make snide remarks about those of us who don't. I had so many people doubt my ability to have a natural birth and that just bugs me. I don't care how you do it, and I will be respectful of your decisions, but I want respect for my decisions as well. Also, my sister had her 4th baby a few weeks ago at home. In the water. I believe that she did what she felt was right for her and her experience was so awesome compared to the 3 she had had in the hospital.
But, my long-winded comment is really just me saying that everyone has their own experiences and thoughts and opinions and who's to say which of us is "right?" I don't think that their is a right or a wrong way to do it. As long as you have a healthy baby and healthy mommy...that is all that really matters.; 9:15 PM
Mrs. Dub said...: I just have to say that I stand corrected because my general experience with friends and strangers who chose childbirth has been negative. (Towards me, that is.) When I was getting ready to birth Miss Dub, they often expressed their disdain at my interest in an epidural and frequently chided me for my pro-medicine approach to it all. It was so bad that sometimes I avoided these people or straight up lied to them about my viewpoint.

So to find that all the natural birthers here are nothing but pleasant and open-minded is refreshing. And I apologize for any epidural-ers out there who have done the same to you.

To each her own!; 7:40 AM
Kelsey said...: I had an epidural with my first pregnancy, and it was wonderful! I hate needles, but the pain of the needle was nothing compared to the pain of contractions. After the epidural, I was even able to take a nap. They had to wake me up to tell me to start pushing!

So naturally, I wanted to get an epidural with my second child. Well, the epidural came way too late. I ended up getting a needle in the back and delivering a baby 10 minutes later, which was much too soon to reap the benefits of the epidural. So, having endured the pain of childbirth, I can say, epidurals are WONDERFUL.

However, it is nice to be able to relate to other mothers who have had a natural childbirth. So, those are the thoughts of a random stranger...; 4:12 PM