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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up at 4am per usual at this end of this pregnancy and was scrolling on Instagram:) At 4:30 I noticed some different waves of cramps that "rolled" in consistently. I noted the time stamp on the "waves" and they were about every 10 minutes. At 530 I woke my husband and told him that "this was it". Sure enough- it was!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Actually the hardest thing about going natural was the fact that I was Strep B positive and needed antibiotics. I was conflicted about receiving the antibiotics in the first place. Once I decided that I was going to get the antibiotics, I was concerned about heading to the hospital "early" for natural birth standards. For my first natural birth, we waited until I was 7 cm to go to the hospital, and this time my OB wanted us there as soon as I knew I was in labor to receive the full dose of antibiotics. Everything worked out- I received the full dose and had a quick delivery about 2 hours afterwards. So basically, the hardest thing was just fear:)
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greta-born
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing I did to prepare was preparing my mind with hypnobirth and mindfulness(through reading and listening to podcasts) as well as keeping generally active by chasing after my 16 month old son:) Attending regular chiropractic and acupuncture appointments also helped.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The swiftness of the active labor and pushing really surprised me! I was in active labor with my first child for like 18 hours and pushed for two hours. With this delivery, I was in pre-labor for around 8 hours, active labor for around two hours and only pushed for 10 minutes! I was also shocked that I didn't require any stitches!
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You can do it! Natural birth requires a different preparation but women can do it! Educating yourself about the natural process of birth, & ways to view and deal with pain, decreases fear and gives confidence and determination to go through the process without intervention. Also, giving yourself and your baby grace to accept the birthing experience- whatever it is-reduces stress.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Definitely breathing strategies helped the best. Swaying, leaning on the bed and having my husband pushing on my hips and lower back helped as well.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered in a typical position for delivery. I was laying on my back with legs up in the bed once I felt the urge to bear down:)
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was a huge relief and a giant blessing! We were over the moon with joy and excitement to meet this new addition to our family!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! Natural birth requires a different preparation but women can do it! Educating yourself about the natural process of birth, & ways to view and deal with pain, decreases fear and gives confidence and determination to go through the process without intervention. Also, giving yourself and your baby grace to accept the birthing experience- whatever it is-reduces stress.
