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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was one day past my due date and had an appointment to do a nonstress test and AFI to measure my amniotic fluid. After my ultrasound showed that my amniotic fluid was extremely low, my OB sent me straight to the hospital to induce. Luckily, I was already 5 cm dilated and contractions actually began before I was started on the pitocin.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing for me was receiving pitocin. I was not thrilled about receiving it but knew I had to do what was best for my baby. It made my contractions much harder and there was not much of a break in between.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Reading, research, and education. From the beginning of my pregnancy I read everything I possibly could about natural labor and delivery. I read lots of Mama Natural birth stories! During labor I listened to praise and worship music, which helped so much. I did my best to focus on each contraction as I was that much closer to meeting my baby!
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What surprised you about your birth?
This is where it gets crazy.. Everything happened in about 2 1/2 hours! The last 45 minutes were definitely the most intense. When I reached what I believe was transition, I told my husband I didn't think I could do it anymore. One of my nurses came in and checked me and told me I was 7 cm. I just knew I couldn't continue any longer. She got me to lie down on my left side. I immediately felt the urge to push. Within 10 minutes we had a 9 lb 2 oz baby boy!
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Read as much as you can. You will be surprised how much comes back to you when you are digging deep to find some strength during each contraction.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Prayer as well as praise and worship music. I also did a lot of deep breathing and low pitched sounds.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Lying on my left side.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was indescribable. I cannot even put into words what it feels like to hold your child for the first time. It's truly a blessing.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Read as much as you can. You will be surprised how much comes back to you when you are digging deep to find some strength during each contraction.
