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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I tried to lay down for the night and the contractions didn't go away; they got stronger!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Learning to trust my body and take it one contraction at a time - not to think too far ahead.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The Bradley Method childbirth classes (before my first birth), listening to podcasts about natural birthing.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it was! It was my second natural birth and I expected it to be as long as the first. I only made it to the hospital 30 minutes before my son was born!
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Don't listen to people who say you can't do it and it's too painful - trust your body! Women have been doing this for years. Don't focus on the pain, focus on what your body is doing and visualize your body opening to give birth. It's a total mind game. If you can control your thoughts and not panic, it will be much easier!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Moving and swaying during contractions, focusing on taking deep breaths and completely relaxing.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back - my legs wouldn't hold me up anymore!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It's the best feeling in the whole world!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Don't listen to people who say you can't do it and it's too painful - trust your body! Women have been doing this for years. Don't focus on the pain, focus on what your body is doing and visualize your body opening to give birth. It's a total mind game. If you can control your thoughts and not panic, it will be much easier!
