Drug free labor

I due in 9 weeks and I would like to try to have a drug free labor, unless there are problem which causes me to have an emergency c-section. This is my first baby ,so i really don't know what to expect. Is there anyone out there that has had a drug free labor with their first child or any or their children and what advice would you give to me? Also would you recommend it to anyone????? Thanks for any feedback. I don't mind anyone who is blunt with a answer.

Re: Drug free labor

no, just wanted to say God Bless you for wanting to go through it without drugs
You are a brave woman....I could NEVER have done it

Message edited 8/21/2007 7:37:25 PM.

Re: Drug free labor

My first I had the epi that only worked for a few hours then I felt everything. I swore I would NEVER go natural. Then my second my labor was too fast to get any meds. It was amazing how great I felt the minute she was born, the pain just disappeard. I personally am praying I can get meds this time around. I am not big on pain and I would prefer to have some relief. I think if you are serious about going natural then get in that mindset. Learn as much as you can about ways to manage the pain. It was the worst pain of my life and I was bagging for help but I survived. I think if I reallly wanted to and I learned ways to manage the pain that I could do it again. I think its all about the minset you have going into labor!

Re: Drug free labor

I have no experience, but I just wanted to say I have the same mindset as you. I am due in 12 days and I am planning on doing it without drugs (although I reserve the right to change my mind!)

I'll let you know how it goes!!!

Re: Drug free labor

I had a drug free labor with my son (he's my first). The best advice I can give is to make sure your doctor is on board with you. I switched to the Stony Brook midwives and they did a fantastic job -- it made a huge difference that I was not strapped to a bed, but able to move around the entire time and labor in the shower while at the hospital. Also, do some sort of natural childbirth class. I did Hypnobabies -- no instructors on LI, so I did the home study course and it helped tremendously.

Basically about 75% of it is your desire, preparation and the support of your birthing attendant, the rest is up to the baby, so pray for a reasonably normal birth. I have to say that having a drug free birth is the most fulfilling thing I have ever done in my life. It is amazing just to let your body do it's work unencumbered. I'm a huge fan of natural childbirth. FM if you have any more questions.