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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Labor started in the morning, but it was slow and hardly noticeable. I just knew the contractions were different based off the last two times I gave birth!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Transition was hard this time. The pains were coming one right after another and were very intense. I was clinging to my husband and trying my best to focus on breathing!
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18S
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I didn't do much to prepare this time! I had given birth naturally with my second (my first was a cesarean birth) so I mostly knew what to expect. I made sure to keep my body moving and my mind focused on what I wanted!
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What surprised you about your birth?
This one went FAST and I wasn't totally expecting that! Once active labor hit, it was about two hours start to finish.
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Don't give yourself any other option! You are strong enough, you can do this.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I kept upright, moved my hips, moaned and breathed. It also helped to have my husband press a warm compress on my back.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was in the tub on my knees leaning over the edge.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! We didn't know if it was a boy or girl, so finding out we had another son was amazing. Just incredible. And he felt so tiny!!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Don't give yourself any other option! You are strong enough, you can do this.
