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When did you realize you were really in labor?
This was a hard decision but I was induced at 39 weeks because I was diagnosed with mild preeclampsia. My blood pressure started to rise around 32 weeks, stabled out then randomly it would be a little high at my appointments. I also did a 24-hour urine protein test and that resulted in slightly elevated urine proteins. My midwives and I came to an agreement that it would be best to induce at 39 weeks, instead of waiting and it potentially turning into an emergency situation, like full blown preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. Going into my pregnancy I didn’t want to be induced, but in the end, it was the right decision for us.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Definitely transition and the pushing stage
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Mama Natural Birth Course
Remembering my “Why”
Mental preparation “I can totally do this!”
Birth affirmations
Red raspberry leaf tea every day
Eating dates last couple weeks of pregnancy
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it was!! I was dilated to a 3-4 before induction, they started Pitocin at 9:30. My water broke on its own at 13:15. Then I really started to feel the contractions. I was breathing through contractions and getting really good rest between. Suddenly I could not breathe through I could only moan/scream through them. That’s when they asked if I felt pressure and I said a little. The midwife checked me and said I was 9 and three quarters dilated, just a little lip of cervix left. I couldn’t believe it, it wasn’t that long! They turned the Pitocin off at this point, so the last hour of labor it was all my body! That was at 15:30. I started really pushing about 20 minutes later and pushed for 33 mins. I was surprised at how I really couldn’t stop my body from pushing with the contractions! It was amazing I could feel my body doing exactly what it needed to do. Baby girl came at 16:23, sunny side up! That’s what took a little longer! I was surprised at the ring of fire and how intense it felt to feel her head coming out but it was so relieving when she came out!
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Knowing it was possible to go without pain medication, many women have done it before. Also preparing my body and mind before childbirth was very helpful!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Bouncing on birthing ball
Back massage/counter pressure
Deep Blue rub for back labor
Standing up leaning over the side of elevated bed, swaying
Doula and husbands support
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Side lying
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I was so glad she was out and the pain was over! And I couldn’t believe I DID IT!!!
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How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?
Knowing it was possible to go without pain medication, many women have done it before. Also preparing my body and mind before childbirth was very helpful!
