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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When my contractions wouldn't stop after moving around and a shower. I also started losing my mucus plug and it quickly turned to being tinged with blood.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Honestly, the most challenging thing is dealing with the skeptics and naysayers. I feel like I mentally prepared myself for natural births but it was when I told people my plans that they would think I was crazy or doubt my ability to go through with it.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Read, research, talk to other mamas and finding a truly supportive care provider.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I have had 3 kids. With my first, I was surprised that I ended up with a c-section. The recovery from that was eye opening. With my two VBACs, I was truly surprised with my body's ability to birth my babies and that birth really does affect you as a mother and as a person. It is a really empowering thing!
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I feel like I mentally prepared myself for natural births but it was when I told people my plans that they would think I was crazy or doubt my ability to go through with it.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Not tensing, moaning, moving, changing up positions to what felt best at the time.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my knees hunched over the back of a bed.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing, like the best prize ever!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
If you believe in yourself, you will do it. Surround yourself with positivity.
