I loved my second labour so much I would and will, happily birth drug free again with no interventions (unless emergency). It's such a contrast from my first experience.

The reason the second time was so different was because I got educated! Sure I re-read the pregnancy fluff again but I also sought out and was introduced to more thorough literature. I gained a better understanding of my body and explored meditation, relaxation and hypnobirthing as well as birthing positions that speed labour and open the pelvis.

I also really took on board the fact that tension causes pain and used that information to create the optimum birthing environment (for me, a homebirth), focused on my breathing and rode those waves!

I surrounded myself with support and really educated my DH about what I needed from him this time. Even with him beside me the first time, I felt completely alone. He did a wonderful job because he knew what I needed as I vocalised this better.

Best of all, I just let go emotionally and trusted my body to do the job.