I think all births are sort of traumatic physically, but I can honestly say I loved it!

My labour was 22 hours, but only 5 hours of active labour. I totally went onto the "zone" and can hardly remember it. I had zero pain relief (being at home) except for a hot water bottle. I remember chanting "hotter...hotter" when it would get cold.

I found pushing hard work, physically and emotionally, and was scared of tearing.

My MW was amazing and encouraged a lot of kissing and cuddling between DH and I, so my birth was kinda erotic. Looking back DH and I both say it was the best day of our lives.