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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I never had the chance to second guess I was in labor. I was one of the women whose water broke before I went into labor. It broke around 11PM June 4th. Soon after I started having contractions 3-5 minutes apart, but it wasn't active labor. Active labor began at 11AM June 5th after trying natural methods to induce labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I would have to say the most challenging thing about going natural was the pain.
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Gabriel-1-of-1
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was focusing on "mind over matter" activities, and staying positive.
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What surprised you about your birth?
What surprised me was how much soaking in a hot tub helped ease the pain. I went from not wanting to talk and staying in a blank state of mind, to smiling and talking again. Of course as I got closer, the pain increased and I put myself back into a blank state of mind.
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The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth was focusing on "mind over matter" activities, and staying positive.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I found clearing my mind and focusing on swaying my hips from side to side helped me cope with the pain easier. It seemed to really pass the time as well.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I had originally planned on a water birth, but it put me into a position that caused more back pain. I ended up laying on my side on the bed.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
My husband asked me what my first thoughts when I first seen and held our. The only answer I have is speechless. It is the happiest I have ever been.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
The advice I can give is stay as positive as you can. If you have access to a warm tub, get in it. Relaxing your body is the fastest way for your little one to come out. Keeping your mind as clear as possible really seemed to help me cope and make the time fly by. The last piece of advice is if there are any complication with latch, see a lactation consultant as soon as possible. For me, it was difficult to tell if my son was getting enough milk. Sadly, I had to see a consultant to correct this issue.
