Sorry it's taken a few days to get back to this. My twins don't leave me much time to type on the computer.

Well, the no sugar coating truth is that I think that natural childbirth is easier than the medicated version. I especially think it's easier than a c-section. But the main part that's easier is the recovery time. The actual labor is hard to get through--especially the transition part. For me, one of the hardest things was that the first time I was going natural, I felt really unsure about whether or not I could do it. After all, I had ended up getting an epidural with my first baby. After I had done it once, the second time was a lot easier. Transition labor is very painful, but it was manageable and not that long really. To me, it was worth it to feel the baby be born. Also, with my third daughter, I was the first to pick her up and hold her. I was the first to look at her and comment on how much she looked like her sister, etc. The whole experience was, for me, very spiritual and empowering.

I really cannot emphasize enough that you should take a Bradley childbirth class/read books about the Bradley method, etc. That method has a much higher success rate for natural childbirth than other methods. Also, if you feel comfortable doing an out of hospital birth and it's legal in your state, I would encourage that. Many midwives will do VBAC's. Your chances for an unmedicated birth are better out of the hospital because hospital policies are often not very flexible.

If you cannot/do not want to do an out of hospital birth, still consider using a midwife if they have hospital privileges in your area. Otherwise, find a doctor who is friendly to natural childbirth. Also, find out what the c-section rates are at different hospitals in your area before you choose one. If you can find a Bradley instructor, she would be a great resource regarding natural birth friendly care providers and facilities.

If you happen to live in the Bay area of California, Orange county or the Dallas area, I can refer you to a midwife. Otherwise, do an internet search, check your phone book, etc.

If you have some specific questions, please feel free to ask. It might take me a few days to answer, but this is a subject I love, so I will get back to you!

Lauralyn