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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Once my surges were consistently 5 minutes apart for about two hours, and increasing in intensity I know it was real labor. It was a late Friday night and my other two children were fast asleep. So I called my doula to come over and help me labor at home for as long as possible.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging part of natural labor, for me, was overcoming my fears. Fear of the unknown, fear of the intensity of the surges, and how long I labor would last. My doula was instrumental in helping me stay focused on my goals. She was always reminding me of my birth affirmations, and that I was strong and brave and could accomplish a natural birth.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I took hypnobirthing, and practiced the techniques I learned there daily. I also visualized my ideal birth, talked to my baby and connected to her every day. Also, I hired a doula, who was experienced in hypnobirthing and aligned with my desires for my birthing.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised at the intensity of my surges, as well as the strength and love that drove me to continue my natural labor. I wanted to fully experience a natural delivery of this, my last baby. And the love I had for his sweet unborn baby kept me going.
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To achieve a natural delivery is to prepare! To find a technique that works for you, practice those tools, and hire a doula! My doula was my life saver. She was so wonderful, patient and inspiring. I am so happy I was able to experience the beautiful natural delivery I had dreamed of.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The breathing techniques I learned in hypnobirthing helped as I got through each surge. My doula also brought and used a rebozo scarf which was heaven sent. I also tried to meditate and get into a very relaxed state. This helped me to sleep and recharge in between surges.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I pushed in many positions. Squatting, hands and knees, and finally ended up delivering on my left side due to the baby's position.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was heaven on earth to hold my sweet girl for the first time. I had labored for her, prayed for her, wished for her and loved her so much for so long. So to see her precious face, and feel her in my arms was one of the best moments of my life. The relief I felt, knowing she was here and safe, washed over me like a giant wave. And it felt so peaceful and perfect. I was so thankful.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
My best advice to other mamas wanting to achieve a natural delivery is to prepare! To find a technique that works for you, practice those tools, and hire a doula! My doula was my life saver. She was so wonderful, patient and inspiring. I am so happy I was able to experience the beautiful natural delivery I had dreamed of.
