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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I had to get down on all fours during a contraction I realized labor was happening, it was unstoppable and I would have to submit to it.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging time was when I had been pushing for several hours with seemingly no progress.
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Mama05-2
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Taking a Bradley Method class, using birth affirmations, staying active and thinking of the women all over the world, who had gone before me.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The pressure when pushing was very surprising and uncomfortable.
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Looking into my daughters eyes as she looked into mine, I had a feeling of everything being as it should be.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Relaxing into my contractions was helpful. Knowing I had to just ride the pain and breath deeply, it was all temporary. The hot tub was helpful as well!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back, legs in the air.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Looking into my daughters eyes as she looked into mine, I had a feeling of everything being as it should be. To describe it as love at first sight would almost be over simplifying it.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Inform yourself, stay active and stretch. Don't listen to horror stories, read as many positive stories as you can. Put yourself in a supportive environment. Don't listen to fear. Trust your body's ability and trust the process. Finally know that you are doing everything you can and if complications do arise, then they are meant to be a part of your birth story.
