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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was in labor for about 12 hours before I actually accepted that this was the real thing! I kept doubting myself, especially since I was past due at 41 weeks and 1 day. My husband left work and everything, but I didn't accept it until my midwife confirmed that it sounded like I was in early labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not being able to sleep. I had a 38 hour long labor, and contractions started around 4 am the previous day. I was too concerned about tracking them to make sure they were consistent that I got too excited to sleep. If I could go back in time I would have told myself that the contractions aren't going anywhere, sleep woman!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
My husband and I took a Bradley Method class. When I was in labor I was not in the position to think about anything. I was crying, I was cranky, and I was tired. It definitely helped because my husband was able to tell where I was in labor as well as help me become more comfortable by suggesting different positions, giving me massages, offering me to walking around, etc. I know he would have been helpful without that class, but he might have been kind of like a deer in the headlights!
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What surprised you about your birth?
The amount of pelvic pressure that came when I went into trasition. Before that, contractions didn't even hurt, I would describe them more as intense. But towards the last 4ish hours of my labor it honestly felt like my pelvic bones were going to split, like a wish bone. A positive thing that surprised me was how alert and calm my son was! My husband told me that he was looking around before he was even fully born yet! I guess as soon as his head was out he was checking out the world! He cried just enough to let us know he was okay, and then just continued being curious about life!
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Definitely have a strong support team and educate yourself about labor so you don't give up when it gets tough!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I labored the majority of the time on an exercise ball, which helped relieve some of my pelvic pain. I also tried the birthing tub, but it was actually too relaxing and slowed my progression.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Classic knees to chest.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was a relief! All of the work and waiting was finally over and I was able to just see his sweet little face and just relax, because I DID IT!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Definitely have a strong support team and educate yourself about labor so you don't give up when it gets tough!
