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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I started having actual, trackable contractions about noon on Thursday, March 2. I waited a few hours but then let the midwife know about them around 3pm that afternoon.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Dealing with the pain.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Got everything ready in our bedroom, had back up plans in place for in case our midwife wasn't able to make it to the birth, made sure everyone knew where everything was located.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How long and slow it was. My other three were much quicker and more intense.
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You have to really want it. It's hard and everything feels more intense, but when it's done, you feel invincible. Make sure your partner knows what you want and is fully prepared to support you in achieving your goals.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing through the contractions helped a little, but nothing really helped that much.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On all fours.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
A huge relief. I was so tired of being pregnant and the labor was exhausting. Holding her meant all that was over and the next stage could begin.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You have to really want it. It's hard and everything feels more intense, but when it's done, you feel invincible. Make sure your partner knows what you want and is fully prepared to support you in achieving your goals.
