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When did you realize you were really in labor?
The night before my birthday I kept waking up with really bad back pains. They were coming in waves just like contractions. But since everything was in my back, I didn't give it much thought. I was able to sleep on and off.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The back labor! It was so painful! Nothing I ever experienced before. It was like a sledge hammer was hitting my spine and shattering all of my bones. In my whole labor experience I did not feel one contraction in my stomach. It ended up that my little guy was in a posterior position.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Overall using a midwife was definitely the most helpful to the whole experience. She was absolutely wonderful and calm. She had all the right ideas to help me get through and respected my wants and needs.
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What surprised you about your birth?
Besides my son being born within the last few minutes of my birthday, that pushing was amazing. Contractions were very painful but once I was able to start pushing I felt like "yes, I can do this". I was able to feel it all so I could push exactly how I was suppose too! Even the midwife commented that I really wanted this baby out! I always feared the pushing part but that was the best!
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Contractions were very painful but once I was able to start pushing I felt like "yes, I can do this".
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Since my pain was in my back, any heat on my back was helpful. Hot water and a heating pad were my best friend. I was able to relax a bit.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I did end up delivering on my back but that was the only comfortable position I could get in. Not sure if that had to do with the position of the baby or not.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Beyond amazing! As I was pushing my midwife said reach down and pull out your baby and I never did anything more amazing in my life! It's truly indescribable! I'll never forget seeing his blonde hair and I was in shock! My husband has black hair so that's what I expected. Also it was the best birthday present I ever got!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Talk to other moms that have gone through it, read as many books as you can and watch youtube videos on natural birth! You will see how doable it is. I also believe a midwife and doula are extremely helpful! If it's your first time a natural birthing class is key too! You can do it mamas!
