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Katy B.

Breathing to Conquer Contractions

How Did Your Labor Start?

My labor started very quickly, my contractions were 2-3 minutes apart. I waited about 30 minutes before going to the hospital. It was scary/unexpected that the contractions were so intense and close together at the start of my labor.

What was the Most Challenging aspect of your childbirth and How did you Overcome it?

The most challenging part of childbirth was the intensity of labor when it started. And I used the breathing techniques from the push lab right away to get through it. The breathing techniques helped me feel like I knew what to do during a time of such uncertainty. 

How did the Push Lab help you prepare for an empowered birth?

The breathing techniques were really helpful, just knowing that I had techniques to use was calming for me. I used the push techniques as well and ignored the advice from the nurse to hold my breath and bare down for 10 seconds. The baby was out within 20 mins of pushing and I had very minimal tearing. I can’t imagine going through labor and the birthing process without taking the push lab to prepare me.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised that labor did not start how I expected or how was described for most first time moms. Obviously everyone is different when it comes to their labor experience. I was surprised how easy and quick the recovery was after vaginal birth.

How did it feel to meet your baby for the first time?

It’s hard to describe, I was just amazed looking at her. I watched her come out and I can reply that moment in my head over and over.

What advice can you give to moms looking to prepare for an empowered birth?

The the push lab! It really gave me the tools that I needed. Also, requesting a mirror was so helpful!!! (I don’t remember if that was discussed in the push lab or not). I would highly recommend it for a vaginal birth, it was amazing to actually see her come out. Also, it helped with the pushing process to have a visual.