From Robin Elise Weiss, LCCE,
Your Guide to Pregnancy & Childbirth.
FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now!

So what advice do moms have for those who are considering a natural birth?

"No one supported my decision to have a natural birth. My friends told me to just wait. People at my husband's work told him the best thing he could do was scream for the anesthesiologist as soon as we got there. The negativity was amazing. My advice is to surround yourself with people who have faith in you, and to ignore the statements that don't support you and your plans."

"Be informed!!!!! Find out the difference between "My malpractice insurance says so" and "You're well-being depends upon it"--no matter what words you hear. Read. Be inspired by others. "

"Have faith in yourself and your body!"

"Each woman knows, I think, what she can do for herself and her baby. If you believe that you want what is naturally best for you and your child, please consider a midwife and birthing center."

"That no matter how well you think you have prepared, you still haven't prepared enough, and that even with the most well-written birth plan and the best preparation, things are still going to happen that are out of your control."

"I didn't plan for a natural birth, but because of complications, I couldn't have an epidural. When it was all over I couldn't believe I had done it! I was so happy! And my recovery was much easier than my first birth with the epidural."

"I learned that you can achieve a natural birth, even when it seems overwhelming."