What does a contraction feel like? How do you know when you’re supposed to go to the hospital? Why do some women end up getting a C-section and others don’t? This collection of birth stories from women in their own words answer all those questions and more.

They include the good, the bad and everything in between about labor and delivery. Nothing can quite capture the experience of giving birth, but hopefully these stories can demystify as much as possible.

Do you want to share your story? Submissions are anonymous. Tell us the details here.

Jump to…

#1: Pizza Regrets and Mango Water Ice (39 weeks / vaginal with forceps)
#2: Getting a Garden Start (39 weeks / vaginal no intervention)
#3: This Baby Is a Rush Hour Warrior (37 weeks / vaginal to C-section)
#4: Successful VBAC (38 weeks / vaginal birth after cesarean)
#5: Pain With Purpose (40 weeks / vaginal no intervention)
#6: Surge of Love (39 weeks / vaginal with instruments)
#7: From Carvel to Yeehaw! (36 weeks / vaginal to C-section)
#8: The waiting game (41 weeks / vaginal to C-section)
#9: Tiny but quick (39 weeks / vaginal no interventions)
#10: Chocolate and ice cream pain (39 weeks / vaginal no intervention)
#11: Three-for-one (39 weeks / vaginal to C-section)
#12: Pushing is hard (40 weeks / vaginal no intervention)
#13: Rock back and forth (40 weeks / vaginal no intervention)
#14: When the Epidural Runs Out (40 weeks / vaginal)
#15: Everyone Is Telling Me to Breathe (39 weeks / VBAC)
#16: Fast and Furious (39 weeks / vaginal)

Birth Story #1: Pizza Regrets and Mango Water Ice (39 weeks / vaginal with forceps)

Location: Washington, DC

Year: 2016

How pregnant: 39 weeks, 3 days

Baby number: 1

Hours in labor: 15

Delivery type: Vaginal with forceps

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan? 

No. I thought I would create one and request less interventions, versus more. But when it was time to put pen to paper, I felt like I didn’t see a good enough, scientific reason to not use what my hospital recommended.

When did you know you were in labor? Where were you and what were you feeling physically?

I was convinced I would go into labor for the entire last month of my pregnancy. I had lots of Braxton-Hicks that felt like tightening on the outside of my belly. I thought they might be real contractions. They were not. TLDR: If it feels like things are only happening on the outside of your body, its probably not a contraction.

My water broke at 11 p.m. at night. I had gotten up to go to the bathroom and heard/felt an unmistakable pop. It wasn’t a lot of liquid. Contractions hadn’t started yet.

What did your doctor/midwife say when you called?

My doctors told me to come on in, since I was Group B Strep positive and needed to get on an IV for antibiotics. 

What happened before you went to the hospital?

Frenzied over-packing, even though the bags were already packed. I decided to eat a piece of leftover pizza, a decision I later regretted. I did it because I heard so many stories or women not getting to eat for something like 20 hours of labor.

Oh, and my poor husband had just taken a Benadryl for a cold. 

When did you decide to go to the hospital? What was that trip like?

The trip was uneventful. It would’ve been a nightmare at rush hour, but the roads were empty that late at night. 

Contractions started in the car. I have a vivid memory of counting through a contraction on the bridge into D.C. At the time I thought that if that was how bad contractions were, maybe I didn’t need an epidural. Ha ha.

Once you got to the hospital, what happened first?

Originally I thought the hospital tour was a waste of time, but my husband insisted on it. Turns out that was a good idea, because we knew the right door to go to, what to do with the car, what floor to head to, etc.

Once in your room, what happened next? Was it what you expected?

I got a room right away and was hooked up to all the machines. I loved being able to hear my baby’s heartbeat constantly. It was like a reassuring little wave of noise.

The OB on call checked and I was only 3 cm. dilated. He recommended waiting for the epidural so labor would progress faster. He offered narcotics in the meantime, which he said wouldn’t really ease the pain but would essentially distract me. I said I was fine. 

An hour later, the vomiting started. I vomited more than I ever have in my life. My husband was carrying buckets of my vomit to the bathroom. This is why I regretted the pizza.

What did contractions feel like?

After the vomiting, contractions started for real. They were a deep, internal, squeezing pain that got worse as the night wore on. It was like riding waves of pain. About two hours in, I was unable to talk or move. I had banished my husband to the couch and was curled up in ball on my bed, gripping the side railing so hard my knuckles were white.  

For some reason I tried to make myself wait until 1 am to ask for the epidural. As soon as it hit, I told the nurse it was time. She told me the anesthesiologist was in an emergency C-section and it would be awhile. I told her I wanted the narcotics. 

If labor was unmedicated for all or a portion of the time, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

I got my narcotics, and as the doctor said, it did not ease the pain but essentially made me feel drunk. I drifted in and out of the pain waves. Contractions were far more painful than I thought they would be. I think I have a high tolerance for pain, and I had half expected to think they weren’t so bad. I was wrong!

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

I labored without an epidural until around 5 am. By that point I was 10 cm. dilated, or very close to it. When the anesthesiologist came in I was still loopy from the narcotics, and I tried to make some joke about how the needle couldn’t be worse than a contraction. No one laughed.

The epidural itself was quick and painless. Sat up on the edge of the bed and it was in. It kicked in quickly, and all of my pain went away. I loved that anesthesiologist so much. 

My husband got me a mango water ice to eat after my epidural, which was the most delicious thing I had (and possibly still have) ever eaten. I took a deliriously happy selfie with my mango treat and started texting family. Everything was great. 

I was 10 cm. and my doctor said the baby could be born in the next hour or two, or it could be several hours. I got excited.

If your labor had an unexpected intervention (i.e. emergency C-section or forceps) how and why did that happen?

Then came my first pushing attempt. I pushed as hard as I could, which was a strange sensation because I couldn’t really feel the muscles. I did this for 15 minutes, but nothing was happening. My nurse told my doctor that I was “really trying” to push and wasn’t faking it, which made me wonder who would fake pushing?

They determined that my baby was stuck sideways. The nurse heroically moved me around to try pushing in different positions, with my husband assisting (since I couldn’t feel my legs). Nothing changed. I got Pitocin, but my baby’s heart rate sped up, so that was quickly stopped. This was the first time I felt real fear during labor.

At some point forceps were mentioned. My nurse said she wouldn’t trust some of the younger doctors to use them, but that my doctor was the best with them.

By 1pm, after three pushing attempts and hours of waiting, I was desperate to get my baby out and have her be healthy. The forceps team was assembled, including extra nurses and pediatricians. I was given an extra dose of anesthesia because “you really don’t want to feel this.”

Then it was time to push again. My doctor put the forceps in, twisted them slightly and then pulled them out. My baby girl followed cloesly behind. It was one quick, graceful movement.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

Because it was a forceps delivery, she had to be examined by pediatricians right away in the room. I could hear her screaming, which was all I wanted. My doctor was stitching me up when the pediatrician came over and said she had “retractions” and they needed to observe her. I asked what that meant. My doctor said he “spoke pediatrician” and explained that some babies’ lungs don’t have a regular rhythm when they are born. They need a little time to adjust, he said, but it was relatively common and not a big deal.

I panicked and asked to hold her before she left. The pediatrician obliged, but not happily. I held my baby and saw her little lungs moving at an odd pace, so I handed her back right away. 

The room got empty quickly. As soon as everyone left, I sent my husband to find our baby. My nurse suggested I order something to eat, presumably as a distraction. I got a quesadilla and waited the longest 15 minutes of my life. My husband came back and said he had found her and she was perfect and had opened her eyes and looked at him and she was coming back soon.

Five minutes later, she was wheeled in in her clear plastic baby jail. We were together again! Soon after my nurse taught me how to breastfeed her.  I hadn’t expected that to happen right away, for some reason. It was confusing and the positioning felt awkward, but thankfully my baby latched and chugged away. 

Anything else you want to add?

I expected to have a smooth delivery since my pregnancy was a fairly easy one, so the forceps and the observation were unexpected. If I had had another doctor, I think its very possible I would’ve had a C-section. I was extremely grateful for that man! I also loved my nurse, which I think made the experience easier despite challenges.

In the future, I would change only two things, though: 1) Get the epidural sooner rather than later 2) Not eat the pizza 🙂

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

My delivery was fast (dilation) and slow (actual delivery!), painful (contractions) and joyous (baby!), goofy (mango selfie) and scary (pitocin), and probably every other emotion in between.

Do you want to share your story? Submissions are anonymous. Tell us the details here.

Birth Story #2: Getting a Garden Start (39 weeks / vaginal no intervention)

Location: Richmond, VA

Year: 2014

How pregnant: 39 weeks, 4 days

Baby number: 1

Hours in labor: 12 total (from initial cramping), 7-8 active (from when I called the midwife/was certain it wasn’t prodromal/false labor)

Delivery type: Unmedicated vaginal birth without intervention

Medicated: No

Did you have a birth plan? 

I had a very detailed birth plan including contingencies (i.e. situations in which I would be OK with an IV, epidural, vacuum/forceps, cesarean, etc).  My plan was written on paper and packed in my hospital bag.  I had also discussed it with my care provider (a midwifery practice) prior to going into labor.  Ever since I saw the documentary The Business of Being Born I knew that I wanted an unmedicated midwife assisted birth and I became fascinated with learning as much as I could about physiological, unmedicated childbirth.

When did you know you were in labor? Where were you and what were you feeling physically?

I had suspicions that I may be in early labor around mid-day because I had lost a large piece of my mucous plug (which I had been shedding over the previous few days).  I also had what I would describe as noticeable cramping but I had also been having it occasionally during the last 2 weeks of my pregnancy.  It wasn’t until I sat down and timed my “cramps” (in the Lawn and Garden section of Target) that I realized they were coming at regular intervals.  Even though my cramps/contractions were regular I still thought it was possible that I was experiencing prodromal labor.  I realized it was likely the real thing a few hours later when I was no longer able to carry on regularly in conversation and other daily tasks.

What did your doctor/midwife say when you called?

I called my midwife at around 8pm after returning home from dinner with my husband.  I had insisted we go get some food because I wanted to “do life” for as long as possible before the birth and also because I knew I might need some calories if I was heading into a long labor. I realized during dinner that I was almost certainly in active labor because I couldn’t really eat the food I ordered and conversation with the waiter was terse at best.  My midwife advised me that it was likely early labor and to have a small glass of wine (if I wanted one) and try to get some rest.  I also called my doula at that time to give her a heads up.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

I knew I wanted to labor at home for as long as possible because it was a comfortable, safe environment and the less time I spent in the hospital, the less likely I was to have a medically unnecessary intervention.  I tried to drink the wine my midwife suggested but after months of abstinence it tasted like rubbing alcohol.  I also tried to rest/sleep but my contractions were too intense, frequent to get any sort of meaningful rest.

I labored upstairs in my bedroom for several hours, changing positions frequently.  I was on my hands and knees on the bed and on the birth ball on the floor while my husband and dog calmed me during contractions.  I was listening to a Joni Mitchell station on Pandora which I had aggressively forced my husband to create mid-contraction.  When I stopped being able to speak during contractions and instead began tapping my hand on the bed to cope with the intensity of the contractions my husband and I agreed to call the doula and have her come to the house.  She stayed with us at the house for about 2 hours before we headed to the hospital.

When did you decide to go to the hospital? What was that trip like?

There came a point where my contractions were so intense that I was literally crawling around on the bathroom floor trying to find any sort of position that would provide some comfort but they just kept coming with incredible intensity and very little break.  At this point I was also experiencing a good amount of bloody show.  My husband called the midwife because he was convinced it was time to go to the hospital.  I was so immersed in my own labor that I wasn’t thinking about anything other than getting through each wave of contractions.  The midwife asked to speak to me but my husband gave the phone to the doula instead since I was unable to speak.  She quickly assessed the intensity of the situation by talking to the doula/overhearing my contraction in the background and advised us to come in.  

By this point I had no idea how far along I was into my labor but I remember telling my husband and doula that maybe I was wrong and maybe I couldn’t do it without an epidural.  At this point my doula knew I must be in transition (8-10cm).  She reassured me that I could do it–I WAS doing it.  Her saying that helped me to focus and hold it together as we made our way to the hospital.  

It took us about 30 minutes to get from the bathroom upstairs into the car parked out front because of the intensity and frequency of my contractions.  When we got out to the car I began to feel the urge to push.  Fortunately the hospital was only 8 minutes away but it felt like we were in the car for much, much longer.

Once you got to the hospital, what happened first?

When we got to the hospital (around 2am) it was practically deserted but I was somehow offered a wheelchair multiple times.  I remembered that walking was good for getting the baby to descend and I was also too uncomfortable to sit so I adamantly refused.  Instead, I stubbornly walked the whole (incredibly long) way, stopping to lean up against the wall or my husband with each contraction.  At one point a well-meaning nurse tried to ask me if I was ok and all I could muster was a glare in her general direction.  

When we got up to L&D I was asked to fill out a ridiculous amount of paperwork despite having “pre-registered.”  I was so far into my own world/labor that it was really difficult to complete the task and I felt like the reception desk had no idea how quickly I needed to get into a room.  I was told to wait in the waiting room for what felt like an eternity.  I was literally on my hands and knees on the waiting room chairs when I felt the intense urge to push/poop which I loudly expressed to everyone in the room (which fortunately was just my husband, my doula and the bewildered receptionist).  Finally, my midwife and her nurse emerged from the double doors to lead me back to a room.

What did contractions feel like?

At first contractions felt like menstrual cramps and over time they grew progressively more intense.  Later in labor the cramping is so intense that it feels like the type of cramping you get when you have a stomach flu but even stronger and over a wider region.

Once in your room, what happened next? Was it what you expected?

On the way to the room they had me stop at a scale to weigh me which at the time felt like a ridiculous, unnecessary thing to do given the state of affairs.  When we got to the room they also tried to make me pee in a cup which I was unable to do at all.  In fact, I couldn’t even get my skirt off–my husband had to do it for me.  They hooked me up to a wireless monitor for all of 5 minutes while I swayed around the room and did a cervical check which revealed that I was complete (10cm) with a bulging bag of water.

I felt like I was about to give birth at any moment but my midwife said the baby was still at station 0.  She asked if I wanted her to break my bag of water and I said no.  She asked if I felt the urge to push and I said yes but that I was scared I would tear.  She told me that I had two choices: I could either not push and stay where I was or I could give a big push and try to break my bag of water to help things progress.  I decided I literally couldn’t be where I was any longer so I decided to give a big push on my next contraction.  

I felt a strange sensation and gush which I assumed was just the bag of water breaking but I heard my midwife yell “THERE’S A HEAD” as she reached out bare-handed to catch my baby girl!!  My husband and I (and the midwife, nurse and doula) were in a state of complete and utter shock and elation.

If labor was unmedicated for all or a portion of the time, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

Moving and walking was the most effective way for me to manage contractions.  I changed positions repeatedly and when contractions got really intense I tapped onto the bed/wall/floor to get through each one.  I also really appreciated the double hip squeezes that both my husband and doula did during my contractions.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

As soon as my baby was born my midwife and the on-call nurse helped me into the bed where we did immediate skin to skin and my daughter latched and breastfed almost immediately.  We remained skin-to-skin for about an hour and during this time I delivered my placenta and my midwife gave me two stitches for a minor tear.  After about an hour they did the standard checks (i.e. weight, length, etc) by the bedside before we were transferred to a recovery room where we stayed for about 24 hours before heading home.

Anything else you want to add?

I had such a positive labor/birthing experience that when my daughter was one year old I decided to train to become a birth doula to help other women through labor and delivery.

I have gone on to have a second child in an another unmedicated midwife-assisted birth–this time at home!

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

My delivery was beautiful, intense, other-worldly and unexpectedly quick!

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Birth Story #3: This Baby Is a Rush Hour Warrior (37 weeks / vaginal to C-section)

Location: Arlington, VA

Year: 2017

How pregnant: 37 weeks 2 days

Hours in labor: 31

Delivery type: Vaginal that progressed to C-section

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

I had a birth plan because one midwife in the practice I went to insisted that I have one. She ended up being the person on call when I went into labor and completely ignored the plan. Luckily my initial plan before her prodding was for me to be healthy and the baby to be healthy. I really didn’t care about calming music etc, but wish she hadn’t pushed me so hard to put wishes down on paper that she was just going to ignore.

When did you know you were in labor?

My water broke at around 5 p.m. when I was at work.  I called the on-call number for my OB-GYN practice and explained to them what happened and they told me to come to the hospital. I fought traffic from DC to Alexandria (home). When I got to the hospital they confirmed that my water had broke and that I was having contractions.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

My water broke and I fought rush hour traffic from DC to my home in Northern Virginia on 395.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

I checked into the hospital (they had lost my preregistration) and was placed in a triage room. The midwife checked and confirmed my water broke. They hooked me up to a monitor and confirmed I was having contractions–though they weren’t very strong. I was 1 cm. and 80% [effaced]. I had some scarring which made dilating VERY slow.

What did contractions feel like?

At first it felt like the baby moving its butt. After being on Pitocin for 15 hours I was in a lot of pain and vomiting after every contraction. I wasn’t expecting how ill I’d feel–it was like running a marathon but not knowing how long the race was going to be and puking at regular intervals.   

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

I did not expect to get an epidural. I was very in shape (I ran 3 miles the morning I went into labor) and everyone had said that would make for a quick and easy delivery. They lied. After many rounds of Pitocin and about 14-15 hours of intense pain I got the epidural. It was a much quicker process than I thought and it immediately made the pain manageable. I could still move my legs but it made pushing much more difficult. I also didn’t love needing a catheter.

If your labor had an unexpected intervention (i.e. emergency C-section or forceps) how and why did that happen?

31 hours after my water broke and after about 2.5 hours of pushing, my baby was not moving beyond -2 [station]. My temperature was also starting to rise. So based on the failure to progress, a C-section was recommended.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

I didn’t expect to have a C-section, but once I made peace with the necessity to do it the result was what I expected. We didn’t know if we were having boy or a girl and we’re shocked and delighted when the doctor told us it was a boy.

The first thing the baby did was pee all over the NICU nurse and then cry. The NICU doc checked him out and said he was perfect.  The doctors remarked about how big he was and that the reason he didn’t move when I pushed was because he was “sunny side up” and on the bigger side for my size (7lbs 15 oz).

My husband got to hold our baby shortly there after and I got to kiss him while the doctors sewed me up. A nice nurse took our first family picture.

Anything else you want to add?

It took a while for me to be okay with the fact that I had a c-section. But now, 5 weeks later, I’m just happy I have a happy healthy baby. The doctor who performed the C-section helped with getting to this resolution a great deal by talking me through a bit of what could have happened if I’d tried for a vaginal delivery longer.

If I have another I’ll probably try for a vaginal delivery and I won’t be so accommodating of the midwife/doctor’s desires (…did I mention the midwife told me she was too tired to stick around while I pushed so I should try for another hour and then she thought we’d call the doctor for a C-section but she was gonna go nap in the meantime because it was unlikely the baby was coming?).  

The doctor who performed the C-section in the other hand was amazing. So just like everything in life–some things are just luck of the draw.

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Birth Story #4: Successful VBAC (38 weeks / vaginal birth after cesarean)

Location: Washington, DC

Year: 2016

How pregnant: 38 weeks, 5 days

First baby: No, this was the second time

Hours in labor: 10 hours active labor

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

The only birth plan I had was that I wanted a VBAC, of which my doctor was supportive, and it happened!

When did you know you were in labor?

I was noticing some cramping feelings for a few days, but it was not regular and it wasn’t really painful. Then I lost part of my mucus plug on Friday night and the rest of it on Saturday night. The contractions began to speed up and get closer together, so I began timing them. I tried to sleep that Saturday night but they kept waking me up. They were not terribly painful but definitely noticeably uncomfortable.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

At around 2 a.m., my water broke. After that, the contractions became a lot more intense, closer together, and more painful. I took a quick shower and we headed for the hospital.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

We went to the L&D unit and they checked me in. They took me to a room right away. I got undressed and into a gown. They checked my vitals and my cervical progress. I was about 4 cm dilated.

What did contractions feel like?

Waves of intense cramping. The baby was moving a lot during each contraction. They became more intense. Yes, I guess it was what I expected — maybe it was a little more painful.

If you had no pain medication, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

I did get an epidural eventually, but I spent about 2 hours laboring without it which was tough! The contractions became more intense and sometimes I felt like I couldn’t breathe, even though everyone was telling me to breathe. I was trying to find a peaceful place but it was really hard. I felt angry and frustrated at times.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

It took a long time for them to get to me, I had an epidural with my first child (who ended up being born via C-section) so I knew what to expect. Sit on the edge of the table, they put a needle in your back. It did not hurt, but it was very difficult to stay still and sit up straight while I was having painful contractions. Once I had the epidural, everything was great. Once it was almost time to start pushing, they made sure it was at a low enough dose so I could still feel a little bit while I was pushing, which was really good because I did not tear at all (and my baby was over 9 lbs!)

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

They immediately put her on my chest. I cried and was just overwhelmed by all of it. I was surprised (since my first child was born via C-section) that everyone left the room except just one nurse, and that they were not in a hurry to take the baby away for testing or whatever. They just let us hold her and cuddle. It was wonderful.

Anything else you want to add?

I highly recommend trying for a VBAC if you had a C-section on your first time around! It was the best experience of my life and my recovery was so quick and easy. However, I would also tell first-time moms not to get too down if you do end up having a C-section. No matter how your baby is born, it’s still an incredible thing to give birth and there is nothing in the world like it!

Do you want to share your story? Submissions are anonymous. Tell us the details here.

Birth Story #5: Pain With Purpose (40 weeks / vaginal no intervention)

Location: Arlington, VA

Year: 2012

How pregnant: 40 weeks

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 8 hours

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: No

Did you have a birth plan?

I came up with a birth plan from the research I did and from books I read. It helped me to feel more in control and have a game plan for the birth.

When did you know you were in labor?

Two days before I delivered I lost my [mucus] plug. I thought for sure delivery would follow soon after, but it didn’t. I started feeling more cramps, but they weren’t regular. The night before I thought for sure I was going into labor. I got really excited and was in some discomfort. It did feel different than before, it was a sensation that came from the core.  

The contractions reduced and returned the following evening. When I laid down to sleep, they seemed to become more regular. My husband helped me time the contractions and we went to the hospital. The feeling is pretty intense. I could not think or do much while going through a contraction. Just focusing on breathing helped me.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

My husband drove me to the hospital. He dropped me off at the lobby and went to park. I had already filled most of the paperwork beforehand, which was helpful. I just had to sign a few papers and get a wristband.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

I went to the triage room. It was late at night, so things were quiet at the hospital. The nurse that saw me said that I wasn’t far along. I felt that coming in as a new mom they thought that maybe I was overreacting. They wanted to send me back home.

I thought to myself if this isn’t the start of labor pains, I don’t know if I can do this. I didn’t want to go back home so they let me walk for awhile to see how I progressed. As I was walking the hallways with my husband I had to stop whenever I had a contraction. I couldn’t move or walk. As I was walking I threw up my dinner.

What did contractions feel like?

The sensation of the contraction is pretty much the same. It just gets more intense and lasts longer, which makes it harder. The predictability of it helps a bit, since you know you have a break between contractions. But in the end, they are pretty much back-to-back. It was not like I expected. My whole body would tense up and contract.

If you had no pain medication, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

I was not totally against taking pain medications, but wanted to be given the option at the ideal time to have a good labor. That didn’t happen. Unfortunately, I had a very inexperienced nurse. In hindsight, I should have asked for another nurse. It make a huge difference who is assisting you.

I was very irritable going through the contractions. Looking at a picture, holding a special stone, listening to my labor playlist, breathing through it and saying to myself “pain with purpose” really helped me get through it. The clothes bothered me, my skin was so sensitive. I didn’t want to be touched at all. A wet rag really helped though.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

The most painful part of labor for me was the crowning. It is a burning feeling. The doctor did cut me with my consent, but decisions had to be made quickly.

The on-call doctor didn’t believe I was going to deliver, based on the information she had gotten from the nurse and the assumption that a first-time mom wouldn’t deliver in eight hours.

My son had swallowed meconium, so that was a bit scary. It was such a joy and a relief. I had a lot of bleeding, so I needed an injection on my thigh and to wait to see if they would have to do some scraping of my uterus, but it all worked out. I felt excellent. I had a quick rush of adrenaline and was all wired up and happy. I guess that’s how athletes feel.

Anything else you want to add?

Although my labor was really painful and intense, once it was over the part of having giving birth was amazing. And it turns out that the recovery is a lot harder in a way. You really have to take it easy, not bend, and sit with your legs closed so you don’t open the stitches.

Follow all the cleaning procedures, take Epsom baths and focus on resting, hydrating, breastfeeding, etc. I can’t emphasize that enough. Everyone tells you what to do before labor, but the after care is the most important and overlooked. You will not recognize your body, but just give it time. Use the ice packs and give yourself time. Remember, your body changed for nine months, so you need at least the same amount of time to get back.

Do you want to share your story? Submissions are anonymous. Tell us the details here.

Birth Story #6: Surge of Love (39 weeks / vaginal with instruments)

Location: Alexandria, VA

Year: 2011

How pregnant: 39 weeks, 5 days

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 10

Delivery type: Vaginal with instruments (i.e. forceps or vacuum extraction)

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

I did not. My doctor and midwife influenced this decision: it seemed unnecessary.

When did you know you were in labor?

My water broke while I was folding laundry, right before I was heading out the door to go to a doctor appointment. It wasn’t a ton of water, but felt like a peed myself a little.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

I went ahead to my doctor appointment where they verified my water was broken. I was then able to skip triage at INOVA Alexandria and be admitted to a delivery room right away.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

I got a room right away. My doctor had called ahead, so they were prepared for me. That was the easiest part!

What did contractions feel like?

It felt like muscle cramps. They got progressively stronger to the point I needed the epidural. I wanted to wait as long as possible to get the medicines as I wanted to be able to walk as long as possible. I got the epidural when I was approximately 7 cm. dilated.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

It took the pain away, but I was still able to push. Putting in the epidural was the scariest part. I wasn’t prepared for the “if something goes wrong” conversation from the anesthesiologist. He had no bedside manner and scared me to death. I almost changed my mind. But we went ahead and he had to do it twice to get it right. I totally hated that guy: the worst!

If your labor had an unexpected intervention (i.e. emergency C-section or forceps) how and why did that happen?

They had to use a vacuum extractor because my son’s head came out about two-thirds of the way on each push, but kept going back in. And his heart rate was dropping. I thought we were heading for the operating room.

The vacuum just kept him out enough that the next two pushes for him all the way out. It turned out his umbilical cord was wrapped around his shoulder. I think many other OBs would have done a C-section, but my OB stuck with it and all went well.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

The cleaned him up a bit right there in the room and I got to hold him. It was amazing. I don’t really know what I expected, but it was a surge of true love for this new little being that we made! He latched on pretty easily. Other than the scare of the delivery issue, and the terrible anesthesiologist, it was great.

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

A bump or two but overall I’d call mine an easy delivery.

Do you want to share your story? Submissions are anonymous. Tell us the details here.

Birth Story #7: From Carvel to Yeehaw! (36 weeks / vaginal to C-section)

Location: Arlington, VA

Year: 2011

How pregnant: 36 weeks

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 12

Delivery type: vaginal to C-section

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

Yes! We wrote it at the suggestion of our hypnobirthing instructor.

When did you know you were in labor?

I thought I was in labor when I felt a tightening sensation – every five minutes or so – in my lower abdomen in the late afternoon. I called my doula, but she was certain I wasn’t in labor because contractions weren’t strong/frequent enough. (Boy, was she wrong!)

What happened before you went to the hospital?

I went to Carvel for a chocolate-vanilla swirl cone with my husband. Then I went to bed and was able to sleep through the contractions-that-I-wasn’t-sure-were-contractions – until around 5:45 a.m. I woke up, went to the bathroom – and saw blood. I called my OB & was told to get to the hospital to see their doctor on call.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

Getting to the hospital at 6:25 a.m. was easy breezy. No traffic and the maternity ward was quiet. I filled out a few papers and was hooked up to machines to monitor my baby’s heart rate. That’s when they realized that my water had broken (maybe when I went to the bathroom and found the blood?), the baby was frank breech, and his heart rate was dropping every time I had a contraction. Yikes. Time for an emergency C-section! Yeehaw!

What did contractions feel like?

For me, contractions felt like a tightening of muscles, like cramps. I expected the contractions to be painful, but they weren’t – well, not until my water broke. That’s when the contractions got a bit more intense.

If you had no pain medication, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

Once the contractions-I-wasn’t-sure-were-contractions began, I started doing my “surge breathing,” a technique I learned in hypnobirthing classes. I breathed in slowly, expanding my belly, for a count of 10 and out again slowly for a count of 10. While hypnobirthing didn’t get me the intervention-free birth I was kinda-sorta promised, the breathing helped calm my nerves and listening to calming mantras put me in a great frame of mind to deal with the surprises this birthing had in store for me.

If your labor had an unexpected intervention (i.e. emergency C-section or forceps) how and why did that happen?

The doctor on call for my practice was a man I’d never met before, but I swear he’s an angel sent down to me from heaven. Within 57 minutes I:  arrived at the hospital, got hooked up to a heart monitor, met the OB, discovered my baby was breech, signed tons of C-section paperwork while laying down and being shaved *down there* for surgery, threw my pie-in-the-sky birth plan out the hospital window, got a lovely shoulder massage from the doc while the anesthesiologist administered a spinal injection to numb me from the waist down for emergency surgery, and a healthy baby.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

Immediately after surgery, I was wheeled into a post-op room where I met my son. During the C-section, I learned the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck – twice. By listening to the doctors and cooperating with their medical advice and putting my hopes for an intervention-free birth on the back burner, I walked away with a healthy son. Not only was he active in utero, he’s insanely active as a child. The birth was comparatively easy; parenting a spirited child is intense!

Anything else you want to add?

A C-section isn’t the end of the world! As long as you’re in good shape – physically, mentally, spiritually – before the birth, recovery can be easy.

After the baby comes, if you feel angry or sad or both and feel like you’ll be sleep deprived forever and why-is-he-eating-every-two-hours-and-it-takes-him-an-hour-to-eat-everytime!!! go to your doctor. Ask if you need medication for postpartum depression. I suffered for months without meds, though I really needed them around the third week or so postpartum.

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

From pain-in-my-gut to pain-in-my-ass.

Want to share your story? It’s anonymous, fill out the form here.

Birth Story #8: The waiting game (41 weeks / vaginal to C-section)

Location: Alexandria, Va.

Year: 2013

How pregnant: 41 weeks, 2 days

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: Never went into labor!

Delivery type: Vaginal that progressed to C-section

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

My informal plan was to attempt medication-free vaginal birth. I just felt confident I could do it. My mother did it twice and I just always thought I would do it the same way once I started thinking about having kids. I sought out an OB/midwife practice to increase my odds of a “natural” birth. I only saw midwives for my appointments.

When did you know you were in labor?

I never went into labor. I went to my 40 week appointment, feeling pretty good and was informed I wasn’t dilated at all. The  practice allows 41 weeks before planned induction. So I left that 40 week appointment with instructions to take evening primrose supplements, walk everywhere, climb steps, etc and do all the things everyone says will put you into labor.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

Did everything I could do to try to kick start labor before the induction day. I was very scared of pitocin and the potential of a c-section. I’ve heard so many people talk about having a pitocin induction which leads to a c-section.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

I was still scared as I got to this point as I was 41 weeks and still never had a contraction. I was checked into L&D on a Thursday morning. They explained there were a number of induction methods to try that did not include pitocin, which made me more comfortable. The midwife explained that there was something in a pill form that they would try first,  and then something that was inserted, and then a balloon thing that was used to slowly dilate you and then removed.

What did contractions feel like?

First with just the pill, I think they gave me that dose in the afternoon of the first day. Watched all the monitors, baby was doing well and I was not progressing at all. 12 hours later, they do the inserted thing that stays in I think 6 hours? I can’t remember exactly. Baby still good and I’m still not progressing really. Maybe 2 cm. After the end of that trial, I’m waiting for the next decision. I still have nothing in my IV at this point. So it’s after midnight on Day 3 in the hospital. They are trying to do the balloon thing, it’s not working right and they start planning to just begin pitocin…I never get it.

If your labor had an unexpected intervention (i.e. emergency C-section or forceps) how and why did that happen?

They are still attempting the balloon and get my IV started. Suddenly the baby monitors start dinging (which they did multiple times since I’d been there, from the monitors shifting and baby moving around) and it’s not just the monitor placement. A doctor comes in – I’ve only seen midwives and nurses up to this point – and says something like, the baby is in decel, we have to get her out, you’ve given it a good try. And I’m just completely in shock, as the doctor sees I don’t have an epidural, or anything in my IV and explains I’ll have to go under general anesthesia because they have to get the baby out. It was shocking and was terrified. It was also very quiet in my L&D room and suddenly, EVERYONE was in there and my husband had to leave.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

I felt still just in total shock about the way things had happened. Not at all what I expected and I was sad because I missed everything.

Anything else you want to add?

The OB asked if I knew I had a bicorneate (heart=shaped or “horned”) uterus, which nope, no I didn’t know. Apparently that often means c-section. It’s something you are born with and it is pretty uncommon. Never heard of it. I never got real answers about why that wasn’t found in ultrasound, etc, but I guess I didn’t have the symptoms that would call for someone to find out.

I felt very traumatized by and unprepared for my emergency c-section for a long time. Still talking about it makes me cry sometimes. For my second kid, I had a planned c-section and that was far more pleasant. I didn’t want to attempt VBAC after all of this with my first.

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

Failed inductions and surprise uterus shape led to emergency c-section.

Want to share your story? It’s anonymous, fill out the form here.

Birth Story #9: Tiny but quick (39 weeks / vaginal no interventions)

Location: Memphis, TN

Year: 2017

How pregnant: 39 weeks, 3 days

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 7

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

I had more of a loose set of wishes than an actual plan (ex: trying to avoid a c-section if possible, being OK with an epidural). I found a lot of birth plan templates online (way too specific and too much information required!). Our 7-week baby class on delivery and early parenthood encouraged a plan, with the disclaimer that it was likely to change depending on circumstances.

When did you know you were in labor?

At my size-estimating ultrasound about 6 weeks out from my due date, the OB told my husband and I that the baby was measuring very small compared to early on in my pregnancy (80th percentile in the first trimester and 5th percentile now). The doctor said not to worry, but of course, we worried. I was referred to a maternal fetal specialist, who would end up giving me ultrasounds twice a week to make sure there was nothing restricting the baby’s growth, like blood flow to the placenta. They ultimately never found anything, but they wanted to induce me at 39 weeks just to be on the safe side. Until then, I was instructed to drink Gatorade to try to help me retain fluid and help the baby gain weight.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

We found out my induction date from the hospital only a few days in advance – it would be at 6am! This gave us time to tell out-of-town family so they could fly in for the birth. I couldn’t sleep the night before due to the nervous and excited feeling about what was going to happen the next day. We got to the hospital bright and early, checked in, got the heart rate monitors put in place, and the Pitocin drip started, all before 7am.   

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

Since the induction was scheduled, we got to our room right away. Our baby classes had included a tour of the delivery and postpartum rooms, so we knew what to expect. I was maybe 1 cm dilated before the Pitocin was administered, but the baby was very low, which probably contributed to the quick labor. The nurse broke my water, and I was surprised at truly how much fluid there was!  

What did contractions feel like?

Contractions felt like period cramps that would slowly build in intensity. They definitely felt different than the Braxton Hicks contractions I had been having for weeks, which I felt in my stomach and down one leg when I would get up suddenly. During the early labor contractions, I was chatting and texting with friends. Then, they started to hurt more and I didn’t feel like talking anymore.

If you had no pain medication, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

Early on, breathing techniques from our baby classes helped.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

At 4-5 cm, I got an epidural. I was not expecting the scary warning about potential side effects from the anesthesiologist. However, I felt like I was getting close to not being able to handle the pain, so I opted in. I remember feeling the needle go in as I was having a contraction, so I could either concentrate on one point of pain or the other.

It took almost an hour for it to kick in, and that’s the only point during labor that I started to internally panic. The nurse also seemed concerned, which contributed to the panicky feeling! I still don’t know whether my body just metabolizes anesthesia slowly, or I was dilating so quickly that it took longer for me to feel the effects. Regardless, it finally kicked in just in time.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

Once the epidural kicked in, I was almost ready to start pushing, and the nurses were shocked at how fast everything had progressed. The nurses actually had me start pushing before the doctor arrived because she was stuck in traffic. Pushing only lasted a few minutes and I remember thinking that “my eyeballs were going to pop out” from the straining.

The birth itself was a blur and a whirlwind: lots of people came in the room, the baby came out, they announced “it’s a girl,” and my husband cut the umbilical cord. They stitched up a small tear I had while her measurements were taken. They placed her on my chest while she was being cleaned off, and I started breastfeeding soon after that. Lots of tears and smiles all around.

Anything else you want to add?

Overall, we had a positive and fairly straightforward birth experience. I’m thankful that our baby ended up being healthy and just over 6lbs…the fear about being growth restricted or “small for gestational age” didn’t end up becoming a reality. Yet, going through that experience caused a lot of anxiety that would last well into maternity leave (worry is probably inevitable as a new parent, regardless of your circumstance!).

In retrospect, I think we were right not to focus too much worry on the actual birth, because so much of that is out of your control. If I could do it over again, I might focus more on preparing for the first few weeks as a new mom…learning how to use the breast pump, having a couple bedtime routine ideas in my back pocket, knowing how all-consuming feedings would be, etc. That (for me) was the harder part. But this stage also has its fun moments – my phone has never been more filled with cute baby pictures 🙂    

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

Scheduled induction, QUICK labor, small (and adorable!) baby.

Want to share your story? It’s anonymous, fill out the form here.

Birth Story #10: Chocolate and ice cream pain (39 weeks / vaginal without intervention)

Location: Boston, MA

Year: 2016

How pregnant: 39 weeks

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 11 hrs, but I was induced so the first 6-7 hours was just me hanging out, waiting for the drugs to kick-in

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

I did not. I heard enough stories of things not going according to plan that I thought it was worthless to make one. But mostly importantly, I am not really one to have a birth plan, too anal for my taste.

When did you know you were in labor?

I was induced. I had developed gestational diabetes during my pregnancy and towards the end of my pregnancy my blood sugar was dropping dangerously low so doctors felt that the placenta was weakening. It was also discussed early on that because of the GD I would get induced by week 40 if I didn’t go into labor naturally.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

My induction was planned so I had breakfast and went! The night before I just took care of last minute details.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

I got to the hospital around 8:30am (after calling to make sure that they had room and time for me, which was standard procedure). We were in a waiting area with a lot of other preggos, most of which were having scheduled C-sections. We waited for a really long time before we (my husband and I) were finally taken to a room. I was hooked up to monitor the baby’s heartbeat for about an hour before I was given any pitocin. By the time I got pitocin, it was close to 2pm.

What did contractions feel like?

I started having minor contractions that didn’t really phase me. They felt like a mild nuisance, slight cramp. After about an hour of this, my water started to break. At that point the doctor came and manually broke my water. Up until this point, that was the most painful thing: the doctor’s “let me see how things are progressing” checkups.  

After my water fully broke I started getting much more painful cramps. They honestly felt like a terrible period that stops and kicks up again on a very frequent interval. I knew I wanted an epidural so after about 30 minutes of this I was like “get me the drugs!”

It was the type of pain that makes you want to curl up into a ball in your pjs in front of the TV eating chocolate and ice cream.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

I requested an epidural after my contractions became 2-3 minutes apart. I expected the injection to numb my back to be very painful but I don’t recall it hurting much. The big surprise to me was how my body reacted post epidural, I started shaking uncontrollably and was told that if was normal. What sucks about the epidural is that once you get it, you’re stuck in bed. Kinda also true if you’re induced, although slightly more mobile in the latter.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

After my baby was born, he was cleaned and placed in my chest. The doctor was also giving me stitches. To be honest I was so exhausted by this point and so kinda “ahhhhh I had a baby” that I had no idea what was happening around me. But he was on my chest for at least an hour.

Anything else you want to add?

I didn’t do labor and delivery classes and I don’t regret it. I had one nurse that was fantastic and talked me through the whole thing. I had another nurse that was slightly rude. It’s ok to demand what you want (she didn’t want my sister to come in). They also say you poop, if I did, I have no fricking idea, so don’t let that be the worry in your head.

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

Smooth and fast-ish but tiring as hell!

Want to share your story? It’s anonymous, fill out the form here.

Birth Story #11: Three-for-one (39 weeks / vaginal to C-section)

Location: Seattle, WA

Year: 2017

How pregnant: 39 weeks, 1 day

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 33

Delivery type: Vaginal that progressed to C-section

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

Since I work in health care and am friends with a lot of docs, I trusted them on the medical decisions but wanted to be really clear about my preferences. My birth plan was intentionally non-medical and focused on how to make me comfortable in a difficult situation and if we needed to switch course. I shared that I’d heard my fair share of hospital horror stories and that I’d do better with more information than less. I asked them to make sure to walk me through both sides of a decision and the medical literature on any big decisions.

When did you know you were in labor?

I was writing my last work email and my water broke within a minute of sending it.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

Called my husband, got the dog a sitter, and ate dinner. We were pretty relaxed since I wasn’t having any contractions yet.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

I’d done a tour of the hospital’s L&D unit, so we knew exactly where to go. We started off in a triage room, where a resident checked how far along I was. I was only a centimeter dilated, but since my water had broke they wanted to start labor sooner than later. They admitted me and started Pitocin.

What did contractions feel like?

Our baby was what’s fondly called “sunny side up” meaning she was head down, but face up (toward your stomach and the sky). It’s not an ideal position because it leads to what they call back labor. I felt like I was having an intense migraine in my spine with each contraction.

If you had no pain medication, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

I labored without pain medication for about 8 hours using a combination of breathing and counter pressure (I’d bought my husband a doula book so he’d read all about various coping techniques). My preference had been to labor naturally, but after 8 hours, I was only 2.5 centimeters dilated and had moved from “coping”  to “suffering” given the back pain, so we went for the epidural.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

The docs came in, on my request, and explained the procedure. They worked in between contractions, and I was surprised by how quickly they were able to get the epidural in.

Honestly, the experience of laboring with the epidural was hugely surprising for me. Your body is still doing everything you would be without the medication. I didn’t feel contractions or even pressure, but I was exhausted and nauseous.

The pain meds helped me cope tremendously, but it was hard to push when the time came since I had no physical sense of what was going on. Luckily,  I had a really great nurse who instructed me through the pushing phase.

If your labor had an unexpected intervention (i.e. emergency C-section or forceps) how and why did that happen?

After pushing for about 2.5 hours of pushing (and 26 hours of labor), we hadn’t made any progress. I was starting to lose my mental game and asked the care team to get together so we could come up with a plan.

Because of the epidural, there was some question of whether I was just not pushing efficiently (since I couldn’t feel anything) or if the baby was stuck. The doctors didn’t all agree. We talked it out between contractions, and the majority seemed to think that the baby was stuck because her head was starting to swell and that more pushing was futile.

We went for the C-Section. The surgeon told me later there was really no way the baby could have been born naturally without damage to me.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

I have only flashes of memory from the period right after the C-section. My husband tells me our baby wasn’t breathing when she came out. I was too out of it to process this, but it was pretty scary for my husband and he was lucky to have a doc take him aside to explain what was going on and that it was pretty normal.

After she was doing better, they brought her over to me to hold her and wheeled us both back to the room to recover. We started breastfeeding right away. I’d wanted a natural labor and had ended up with an extremely medical experience, so being able to stick to the breast feeding plan was a relief.

Anything else you want to add?

Finding a great OB/GYN was the single best decision that we made through the process. When there was disagreement about how my labor was progressing, having someone who knew me well made a huge difference.

She knew my preference for a vaginal delivery, and I really trusted that she had my best interests at heart when she said she thought it wasn’t possible. We’d talked about it a couple weeks prior and she had raised the possibility of it, which I didn’t like at the time, but had allowed me to process my feelings about it in advance. When we had some complications following the labor, she visited every day to give up updates and went out of her way to coordinate the care team.

I didn’t anticipate how difficult C-section recovery would be. You feel incredibly vulnerable laying in the hospital bed hardly being able to move and needing to rely on other people to bring your baby over if she cries.

Having help at home that first week was a life saver since seeming small things, like sitting up, were a huge challenge. My husband was home for four weeks and that was about the period that it took for me to recover enough to feel ready to go solo.

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

Three for the price of one (natural, medicated, c-section): we got them all!

Want to share your story? It’s anonymous, fill out the form here.

Birth Story #12: Pushing is hard (40 weeks / vaginal without instruments)

Location: Richmond, VA

Year: 2017

How pregnant: 40 weeks, 3 days

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 29

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan?

I didn’t have a written birth plan. I did have a sense of how I would like things to go, but I knew certain things would be out of my control and I would have to go with whatever was best for me and the baby. I wanted to avoid an induction, which didn’t happen. I wanted to try to have a non-medicated birth, which didn’t happen. I think in the end, knowing that I needed to be mentally prepared to be flexible helped.

When did you know you were in labor?

At my appointment on my due date I was 4cm dilated, but there were no signs of labor. Two days later I lost the mucous plug and was having more Braxton-Hicks contractions, but wasn’t really feeling the baby move as much so I called my doctor. They had me come in and we monitored him–he was doing great, but they recommended an induction and even though I initially didn’t want to go that route, (really only because I knew pitocin brings on labor more strongly and I didn’t think I could handle the pain as easily), I trusted that my doctors were recommending that in the best interest of me and the baby, so I agreed.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

My doctor’s office was attached to the hospital, so before going in to get checked out I went ahead and put our stuff in the car just in case we weren’t coming home–smart decision.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

We were checked in right away, around 1pm–it was a slow day in the labor and delivery unit. The admin person came in to log in my insurance information (even though I pre-registered), and the nurse came in to do my IV and they hooked two monitors up to my belly–one for me and one for the baby. Those were not the most comfortable belts in the world, but it was fine.

The on-call doctor saw me right away and we discussed how I wanted to get labor started–either with pitocin or breaking my water. We decided to start with pitocin and go from there. I hadn’t eaten anything but a bowl of cereal that day (smart), so they gave me some crackers and peanut butter.

What did contractions feel like?

With the pitocin, labor contractions started but were mild at first and started to build. By evening I hadn’t made any progress and the baby wasn’t responding well to the pitocin, so they slowed it down and let me get some sleep.

Around 6am we decided to break my water. That was the most intense moment up to that point–the doctor broke it and there was a huge gush followed by immediate, intense contractions.

I sat up in the bed and could barely stand the intensity of what was happening–it was like a switch had flipped in my body. I asked for an epidural right away. In the meantime they gave me a narcotic, which was helpful to tide me over.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

The epidural was great. Once the doctor administered it, the pain relief was immediate and I didn’t feel any pain until it was time to push (10 hours later). Did I mention I was in labor for a long time?

The only downside was not being able to get out of bed and move around and having a catheter, but at that point I had lost all sense of modesty and my nurse was amazing, so it didn’t bother me too much.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

Immediately after he was born he was put on my chest for magic hour–something the hospital did automatically. He pooped all over me which was unexpected but memorable and funny.

Looking at him for the first time and snuggling him I felt a wave of love and awe that this little person grew inside of me and was finally here. Leading up to the birth I was nervous I wouldn’t feel a bond immediately, but that didn’t happen. It also became clear to me that he was a huge baby (since they weigh them after magic hour–he came in at 9 lbs 13 ounces), so that explained the lack of movement leading up to induction–he was running out of room!

Anything else you want to add?

Pushing is HARD. Like, the hardest physical activity I’ve ever done. When I was fully dilated I ended up needing to wait 30 minutes before pushing for real because I was so numb (you have to have some sense of feeling down there to know what you’re doing). So my husband and I got 30 minutes to ourselves to mentally just take it all in–that was a really nice time–our final moments as a family of two.

When it was up and I was pushing for real, I realized after the first one that I needed to be completely silent and use all of my strength to concentrate on what I was doing. I didn’t bring any music with me to the hospital and I’m glad I didn’t–for me that would have been too distracting–I was all business. Towards the end when I could feel the pressure of the baby in the birth canal I couldn’t get him out of there fast enough. I delivered 1.5 hours after I started pushing.

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

The single life event I am most proud of and the strongest I have ever felt, with the greatest reward.

Want to share your story? It’s anonymous, fill out the form here.

Birth Story #13: Rock back and forth (40 weeks / vaginal without intervention)

Location: Philadelphia

Year: 2019

How pregnant: 40 weeks 2 days

First baby: Yes

Hours in labor: 17

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan? 

I didn’t really have a birth plan. My plan was to have my daughter vaginally with no pain meds, and just give birth to a healthy baby girl.

When did you know you were in labor? 

I didn’t know until my water broke and I felt like I had to go pee really bad. I was eating and I didn’t realize my water had broke until I went to the bathroom and my pants was wet. I went pee and everybody said there was a trail of fluid from the chair going upstairs and I was like time to go.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

I packed my baby bag and put some shampoo and conditioner in there and ate again, because I knew they wasn’t going to let me eat anything at the hospital. I took a shower and shaved, got dressed and left to the hospital.

What happened first when you got to the hospital?

They took me to triage and checked me they said I was 2cm but they gave me an IV and medicine to speed it up. I knew where to go because I took a tour at 34 weeks. 

What did contractions feel like?

Contractions went from cramps to really bad stretching headaches in my stomach. And I always felt like going pee.

If you had no pain medication, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

If I cried it made it worse, so I had the nurse sit me on the edge of the bed and rock me back and forth and it felt way better. I knew the nurses was going to be there for me all through the way.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

The baby popped out and the doctors cleaned me up. It was very nice and unexpected.

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

Harsh on the body but you will get through it and after comes a precious gift.

Want to share your story? It’s anonymous, fill out the form here.

Birth Story #14: When the Epidural Runs Out (40 weeks / vaginal)

Location: Carrollton, Georgia

Year: 2022

How pregnant: 40 weeks, 6 days

Baby number: 1

Hours in labor: 20

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan? 

I did, which I was able to stick to mostly. I was lenient in some areas. I didn’t want my IV in my hand in case I wanted to be mobile. I wanted to try to go unmedicated (which changed quickly after 5 cm). And my goal was no c-section. And I did not want to labor on my back regardless of epidural placement.

When did you know you were in labor? Where were you and what were you feeling physically?

I was asleep that night and felt cramping that went to my back that would come and go. I was able to sleep through on and off the first three hours. When they started to get worse, I began to track them and woke my husband to tell him I wanted to take a bath. When they got worse and I checked them time, they were 5 minutes apart lasting a minute, so time to drive to the hospital!

What happened before you went to the hospital or birthing center? What did you do?

Nothing, we already had our bags packed. And we had a 45 minute drive. So, we just grabbed our pillows and sent necessary texts out that we were headed to the hospital.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

I waited in the ER while my husband parked the car. They wheeled me up right to a room where I was changed into a gown, hooked up to the monitor, and they checked my cervix. I was 2 cm and 60% effaced. They said they were busy that day so if they came in and I had no cervical change in an hour they would probably send me home (even though my induction was scheduled for the next day).

What did contractions feel like?

They felt like a cramp that would slowly get worse in tightening and strength. It was what I expected but worse at the same time.

If labor was unmedicated for all or a portion of the time, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

I had received an IV pain medication stadol while I waited for my epidural. It did help with how tired I was and took the edge off the pain. I was able to sleep while I waited for my epidural. It did make me feel drunk.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

It worked absolutely wonderful. I have a spine tattoo so he needed to work around that but it was a slight pinch that felt nothing compared to contraction pain and was in perfectly. At one point though when I was 9.5 cm, my epidural ran out. So I could feel ALLLLL my contractions again. I had to call them back in and tell them something was wrong with it because it was not working and felt like how my contractions did at 5 cm.

If your labor had an unexpected intervention (i.e. emergency C-section or forceps) how and why did that happen?

I did have to start on Pitocin. Once I got to 5 cm and got the epidural they think it stalled my labor. So Pitocin and allllllll different position changes. Every hour.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

They think he slightly aspirated when he came out so they quickly brought him over to the baby station to monitor his vitals. My sister was also in the delivery room, so I told my husband go be with our son and she got me.

Anything else you want to add?

I pushed in multiple hands and knees positions and side lying but they ended up suggesting on my back with a mirror to be able to see where I was pushing which I feel helped a lot. I also drank the raspberry leaf tea the week leading up to my labor and most vaginal deliveries have an estimated blood loss of 500 ml. I only lost 100.

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Birth Story #15: Everyone Is Telling Me to Breathe (38 weeks / VBAC)

Location: Dothan, Alabama

Year: 2016

How pregnant: 38 weeks, 5 days

Baby number: 2

Hours in labor: 10

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan? 

No, but my doctor gave me advice to get a VBAC this time.

When did you know you were in labor? Where were you and what were you feeling physically?

I noticed some cramps over the last few days.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

My water broke. After that, contractions become more intense, tight and painful.

Once you got to the hospital, what happened first?

They checked me out. They took me to a room at once. I took off my clothes and put on my dress.

What did contractions feel like?

Bouts of cramps. During each contraction, the baby moved a lot. They became more nervous. I think that’s what I expected – maybe more painful. 

If labor was unmedicated for all or a portion of the time, how did you manage contractions? Was it what you expected?

The contractions became more intense, and sometimes I felt like I couldn’t breathe, even though everyone was telling me to breathe.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

When I suffer painful contractions, it is difficult to stay still and sit up straight. After the epidural, everything was great

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

I cried, overwhelmed by everything

Anything else you want to add?

If this is after your first c-section, it is recommended that you try VBAC!

Final question: How would you describe this delivery in one sentence?

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Birth Story #16: Fast and Furious (39 weeks / vaginal)

Location: 2018

Year: New York, New York

How pregnant: 39 weeks

Baby number: 1

Hours in labor: 6

Delivery type: Vaginal

Medicated: Yes

Did you have a birth plan? 

I didn’t. I was open to no epidural and trusted that my doctor and husband would get me through the delivery.

When did you know you were in labor? Where were you and what were you feeling physically?

I felt a lot of pain. Like sharp pain in my stomach and they were not far apart. I was grocery shopping with my mom. We went home and cooked dinner.

What happened before you went to the hospital?

I took a shower because that’s what the birthing course told us to do. But it was so painful I couldn’t really do anything but lean on the wall.

Once you got to the hospital, what happened first?

I was screaming a lot and was immediately checked at triage and they found that I was 9cm (!!!!!). We stayed at triage for a bit so I could get the epidural. My water broke as we were waiting for epi. Once I got the epi they moved me to a labor room.

What did contractions feel like?

Sharp pain like someone was stabbing me and I felt like I was on fire. Stuck my head out of the car window like a dog to cool down. I also felt like I needed to poop. SO much worse than I expected.

If you got an epidural, how did that work? Was it what you expected?

It worked immediately and perfectly. I was expecting maybe to still feel some pain because some friends said it didn’t work perfectly for them. But I was screaming a lot and probably scaring everyone in triage so maybe they gave me extra.

What happened immediately after your baby was born?

They checked baby in the room and then we held him for a bit. We took some pics and I think they took baby to the nursery or for more checks. We stayed in the delivery room for a while. Maybe like 2 hours? I think they were getting a recovery room ready. I didn’t know we’d have to wait so long before getting to the room or seeing baby. We didn’t see him for like 5 hours I think.

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