How I Found Power in Pain: My Unmedicated Childbirth Experience
Honoring All Birth Journeys
Before I begin, I want to honor all the brave, beautiful mothers who have brought their babies into the world — whether through vaginal birth, cesarean, medicated, or unmedicated. You are all magical, and I deeply admire you for doing what’s best for yourself and your baby.
Why I Chose an Unmedicated Birth
I chose to give birth unmedicated simply because I was curious. I had already delivered my daughter vaginally with an epidural, and I wondered:
Could I handle the pain?
Did I have the mental toughness to commit to the challenge?
Since my mom delivered all three of her daughters unmedicated, was this strength naturally in me too?
These questions swirled in my mind. I knew that if I didn’t at least try, I would regret it. Plus, as someone who loves new experiences, this felt like a journey I needed to undertake.
Was It Everything I Imagined?
Did I accomplish it?
Yes — that’s why I’m writing this!
Was it everything I imagined?
Not exactly.
I had pictured it being less painful, probably because my first experience was numbed by the epidural. This time, I felt everything:
My body urging me to push.
My baby moving down through my belly toward the birth canal.
His head emerging, followed by his tiny body.
And even though it was incredibly painful — it was absolutely awe-inspiring.
The Critical Moment: Pushing Beyond Fear
One moment stands out vividly: my son's head was out, but his body was still inside me. It was as if he were caught between two worlds.
The doctor and nurses urged me: "We need him out right now. Push with everything you have!"
Fear tried to creep in, but I knew my baby needed me. Summoning every ounce of strength, I pushed with all my might — and it worked.
He was born.
For a few seconds afterward, I felt like I left my body — overwhelmed by pain, energy, and awe. I just needed a moment of relief. When I came back to myself, my first instinct was to ask, "Is he okay?"
And he was.
A few minutes later, I delivered the placenta — thankfully, without needing the same intense effort.
How I Prepared for an Unmedicated Birth
This was, without question, one of the most physically, mentally, and spiritually demanding experiences of my life. I stayed committed to my vision and prepared myself for success by:
Prenatal yoga — helping me stay calm, centered, and connected to my breath.
Walking and strength training — building my stamina and resilience.
Healthy nutrition and hydration — fueling my body for the intense marathon of labor.
Supportive touch and love from my husband — boosting my oxytocin levels to ease pain naturally.
He even made a comedy playlist (recommended by a natural birth course we took) to keep the atmosphere light, joyful, and relaxed during labor.
The Power of Surrender During Natural Childbirth
One of the most valuable lessons I learned is this: Relaxing into the pain is crucial.
When we tense up during contractions, we resist the body's natural movement — which can prolong labor and increase discomfort. But when we relax and surrender, we allow the body to do what it’s beautifully designed to do: open and make way for life.
I also learned something even deeper: pain does not give me permission to lash out, be chaotic, or unkind to the people supporting me.
This was a powerful shift from my first birth, when I felt justified in yelling or snapping at my husband during contractions. But during this unmedicated experience, I realized — in those difficult moments, I need the people around me to stay close. And treating them harshly only pushes away the love and support I desperately rely on.
This time, I made a conscious effort to speak with clarity, firmness, and honesty — which is very different from being critical or unkind. I extended that same attitude not only toward my husband but also toward my 9-year-old daughter, who was present for parts of my labor. It mattered to me to create a peaceful birth environment — and I knew that had to start with me.
I’m proud of myself for not making anyone around me feel small, panicked, or unwelcome. They didn’t have to say anything for me to feel their appreciation — it came through in their actions:
The way my husband offered constant affection and support
The nurse, who had already clocked out, going out of her way to escort me to Labor & Delivery and carry my bag (because my husband was stuck parking in a heavy rainstorm)
The delivery nurse who held my hand when my husband had to step out, and who secured the best postpartum recovery room — with the most beautiful view
The doctor and medical team who handled my delivery with both strength and care
The nurse who helped me with all of my bags and personally escorted me downstairs to meet my husband at the car
All of these moments reminded me: the peace and kindness I offered didn’t just serve me — it came back to me tenfold.
What I Learned From My Unmedicated Labor and Delivery
This experience taught me so much:
That my body is stronger than I ever imagine.
That pain can be a powerful, humbling teacher.
That being in pain doesn’t excuse mistreating others — grace is always a choice.
That surrendering to God’s will, and trusting the people around me, made all the difference.
That even in fear, love and faith can carry you through.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an unmedicated birth wasn’t easy — but it was transformative. It stretched me physically, mentally, and spiritually, and I am so deeply grateful for the journey.
If you are considering a natural birth, know that preparation, support, and mindset are key — and that no matter how your baby arrives, you are powerful beyond measure.
