They told me I couldn’t do it, but I proved them all wrong…
I don’t know when, but somewhere in the thick of pregnancy I decided that I wanted to have an epidural free labor. I do want to preference with the fact that I was really lucky to be able to have a natural labor. My pregnancy did not come with any complications, I was able to stay active the entire time, and my labor and delivery went smoothly. I know an epidural cannot be avoided in certain situations, and I am so lucky that was able to avoid one.
My choice not have an epidural came from the following reasons:
- I wanted to be able to move throughout the laboring process – because let’s be honest the thought of not feeling my legs scares the heck out of me. I also did not want to be stuck lying in a bed for hours.
- I wanted to avoid tearing (as much as possible) –obviously there are so many factors going into this, but I figured if I could feel what was going on I would avoid over pushing and/or relying on others to tell me when to push.
- I wanted to avoid potion and a C-section – now I know these things do not always go together, but the more interventions you have the more likely you are to need additional interventions.
- The thought of someone putting a needle into my back makes me cringe – enough said.
- Enough people told me that I would never be able to do it – so, being the stubborn Italian that I am, I had to prove them wrong.
I said it already and I will say it again – I was so lucky to be able to have a natural labor. Not only did I end up not getting an epidural, but I didn’t get any drugs during labor at all. It was tough, painful, but the most amazing experience I have ever have. I also felt slightly like superwoman afterwards. My advice is that if you don’t want an epidural – make it known. Convince yourself that you CAN do it. I truly believe that giving birth without any drugs is a mind game that you have with yourself. Do not doubt yourself. I was lucky to have a great labor and delivery nurse, awesome doula, and a super supportive husband (who convinced me I didn’t need any drugs at all – when I was considering IV drugs during transitional labor). A supportive team who knows and respects your choice is key.
I honestly don’t have a high pain tolerance, I didn’t take any birthing classes, I just went into it knowing what I wanted. I knew that my plan could change in a moment, but had the support system in place. Giving birth without an epidural was probably the most phenomenal thing I have ever done. It was so amazing to feel the cues that my body gave me during the labor process – and especially when it came time to push. If it is something that you are considering I am here to tell you that you can do it (even with back labor- the entire time) – and you will feel like you can conquer the world after.
