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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up at 2am to my water breaking and contractions began shortly after. It was a surprise ten days before my due date!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Remaining calm, especially at the peak of each contraction. My doula really helped me stay relaxed and positive, there is no way I would have been able to get through it without her! Forcing myself to smile with each deep breath inhale helped me as well!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I surrounded myself with positive birth stories! It was seriously encouraging knowing that countless women had gone through childbirth gracefully before me and helped me enter this time without fear. I would highly recommend reading Ina May Gaskin's "Guide to Childbirth" and "Birth Matters". Also, taking a natural childbirth class was very helpful. I knew what my body was doing during labor and that the pain was good and effective. This helped me keep a positive attitude, which in turn helped me stay calm and focused.
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What surprised you about your birth?
My baby decided to come ten days early, which I had not mentally prepared for. Thankfully the day before I went into labor I finished getting all our home birth supplies! Make sure you don't wait to the last minute to prepare! I was also surprised at how long labor lasted--27 hours! I knew for first time mamas it could be quite long, but I didn't anticipate just how long it could be!
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Prepare yourself mentally. Read birth stories and watch peaceful birth videos! Towards the end of my pregnancy I was looking forward to labor with confidence!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
My husband and mom took turns holding a sock filled with rice and warmed in the microwave against my back, pushing on it during each contraction. I also sat and swayed on the birth ball--the rhythm helped a lot. And of course, a hot shower felt amazing!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering on my back, with the midwives holding my legs and my husband supporting my back during each push.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
There is no greater relief! I was amazed at how instantly the pain went away the second my daughter came into the world! Getting to finally see the little person you've dreamed of for nine months is so special and sweet. And I felt amazing all the rest of the day! I didn't even feel sore until nearly ten hours later!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
The best advice I can give is to prepare yourself mentally. Read birth stories and watch peaceful birth videos! Towards the end of my pregnancy I was looking forward to labor with confidence! Also, hire a doula! My doula was amazing, for both myself and my husband! I truly believe I would not have been able to do it without her!
