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When did you realize you were really in labor?
All day Saturday I noticed my Braxton Hicks getting stronger and more contraction like. At 3pm my hind waters broke and semi regular contractions started. Mild and short to being with.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
My labor was pretty fast once it became established ( 6cm to our son being born in 45min or so ) so it was VERY intense.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Reminding myself that I had given birth naturally before. With no pain relief or intervention. I knew both my body and my mind could do it and I trusted that I could do it again. I made sure all my support people, husband midwife and birth support person knew my wishes and supported me.
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What surprised you about your birth?
Just how fast it was. With my daughter it was un complicated but slower so I had time to adjust to the increasing intensity of the contractions. But this time was so quick it was much more intense. He also arrived a week early which I was not expecting at all, I really thought he would arrive late!
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Believe in yourself, surround yourself with people who support you. Focus on your birth plan. I also reminded myself that I trust my midwife and if she believed a procedure or transfer was absolutely necessary it didn't mean I was a failure.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Focusing on my breathing during each contraction, and reminding myself that with each one I was closer to holding my baby boy for the first time. My husband rubbing the small of my back firmly also helped.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Semi reclined on the bed after making a mad dash back from the bathroom!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Totally amazing, overwhelming and incredible.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Believe in yourself, surround yourself with people who support you. Focus on your birth plan. I also reminded myself that I trust my midwife and if she believed a procedure or transfer was absolutely necessary it didn't mean I was a failure.