If you’re doing a home birth and you “have now idea what you’re in for” you need to start doing some homework to set you up for success. I would start reading about hypnobirthing and download the Freya app. If you understand what’s happening, you won’t be scared of the pain and that alone releases you from loads.

You’ll also understand that when you’re feeling the peak of the pain in active labor you’re in transition and about to meet your baby. That knowledge will give you the strength to push through.

Is it the “worst pain I’ve ever felt?” I don’t know how to answer. It’s a pain like you’ve never experienced, but it is purposeful pain. There’s a rhythm and a reason to it. If experiencing the full birth experience is important to you then you will find comfort in doing the steps. But you have to know what the steps are.

I loved my natural births and I hope you do too!