Opting for a Natural Birth without Epidural

Thinking of an all natural birth? You are not the only mad one.

" Ladies, I've decided." I announced abruptly a couple of weeks ago during lunch.

All three of my buddies cum colleagues stopped in in their tracks; and put down the burgers that I sort of coerced them to eat because of my unusual craving.

"I'm going for an Au Naturale birth." I said in a very determined tone.

Mitch, who opted for elective caesarean when she had her son, looked at me wide-eyed and exclaimed, " You mean without epidural?"

" Yes without epidural." I sounded somewhat proud with myself.

Fung, as her usual no-nonsense self, asked bluntly, " So what's your treshold of pain?"

Without hesitation, I replied, " Very bad."

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SO WHY OPT FOR A NATURAL BIRTH WITHOUT EPIDURAL?

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Pros of Natural Birth (With or Without Epidural)
1. Ability to move freely during labour

2. Reduced risk of blood loss or other complications after labour

3. Faster recovery after birth, ability to care for baby almost immediately

4. Babies born vaginally have a lower risk of respiratory problems. It is widely accepted that the contractions of labour help prepare the baby's lungs to breathe air. 

Pros of Natural Birth (Without Epidural or Medication)
1. Reduce chances of interventions (For e.g: Pitocin/Forceps/Vacuum/etc)
Since one can feel the body's reflexes more intensely, one will be able to push better.

2. Stronger sense of empowerment
Birth medications can make one feel groggy, nauseated and uncomfortable, this makes one unable to feel more involved and in control of the situation.

3. Research has shown that babies who are delivered naturally are more alert and shows more interest in being breastfed.

4. Some say chronic backaches are also less likely to affect moms who have a natural birth.

5. Chances of longer breastfeeding period. 
On the impact on breastfeeding this American study suggests that a caesarean can make it less likely that a women will initiate breastfeeding, more likely that they will stop within a month, but if they get past the one month barrier they go on to breastfeed for average terms as long as babies who were born naturally.

6. For first time moms, one will have the option of having a natural or elective caesarean for the next childbirth. 

Alright this is my take on my decision: Since I'm already going through 9 months of hardship, what is another day more? I want to minimise whatever risks that my baby or I would be exposed to.

For moms who are considering a natural birth like I am, I would recommend you to read Ina May's Guide to Childbirth.