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When did you realize you were really in labor?
This was my fourth baby but it was the first time my water broke on its own! So at first I was thinking, Is this really happening? When the leaking didn't stop I figured out it must be real!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
With my first baby I only *hoped* to not have to use pain meds, because my mom had done it four times. At one point I didn't think I could take it anymore but then they checked how dilated I was and I could push! So of course I had been in transition. After doing it once "all natural," I knew how strong I could be and haven't needed to use anything for any of my babies. The first time is the worst because you truly don't know what to expect or how bad its going to get!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
For me, I have to be prepared mentally. Even though I had done it before, there was still some fear and dread! So every time I would have an "I don't want to (or worse, I CAN'T) do this" thought, (which happened the entire 9 months!) I would take some deep breaths and think, of course I can. My body was made for this. I've done it before. My body knows what to do. Yes, it will hurt but it is so very temporary and worth it. Etc. So I was able to think some of the same things when labor got painful, which was helpful.
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What surprised you about your birth?
Having my water break but not going into labor! My doctor ended up inducing me (ok, not exactly natural!) and everything went fine after that. It was just funny that I thought I knew exactly how it was going to go (I'll start having strong contractions in the middle of the night because that's what has always happened) but I was complete wrong!
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The goal is obviously a safe and healthy mama and baby. With that being said, if you have mentally prepared for what is coming, you will amaze yourself with what you can do!!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Deep breaths through the worst contractions. During labor with my first baby, someone told me, just keep thinking it's not as bad as it's going to get. Or in other words, it's GOING to get worse. I have NO clue why that's helpful, but it has always helped me get through!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back, only because it's what I'm used to. I know there are better ways but I've had all typical hospital births and it's just what they do. It's always worked out fine for me!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It's the biggest relief in the entire world when your baby whooshes out ? and then to hold them is so incredible. It's a stranger but it's not. It's not always love at first sight but there is this amazing feeling of awkward gushiness. Like, I know I just met you but you're amazing! Haha clearly it's indescribable!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Remember that no one is counting your natural brownie points! It's not a competition so don't let all your hopes and dreams rest on everything going perfect, because it very well may not. The goal is obviously a safe and healthy mama and baby. With that being said, if you have mentally prepared for what is coming, you will amaze yourself with what you can do!!
