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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was really in labor when I kept having fluid leak out. I had been having Braxton Hicks for several days, but then I started leaking fluid. My contractions never did become regular on there own.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Having to be on pitocin to induce my contractions. My water had been leaking, and my body wouldn't hold steady strong contractions. I was on pitocin for 17 hours. The contractions were really strong and painful. I almost caved.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read lots of tips, and followed the advice of Mama Natural. I had always wanted to go natural before I ever even considered trying for a baby. I think my want to do everything natural is truly what helped me most. That, and breathing through the contractions.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How exhausting it truly is. I was in labor for about 17 hours and pushed for an hour. When my son finally made his appearance I could barely hold my eyes open.
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I read lots of tips, and followed the advice of Mama Natural. I had always wanted to go natural before I ever even considered trying for a baby. I think my want to do everything natural is truly what helped me most. That, and breathing through the contractions.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Standing and swaying through the contractions. Once they got to a certain point, that was the only way I felt any sort of relief.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In the hospital bed with my legs in the stirrups. I was so exhausted I couldn't imagine being able to hold myself up.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing. The hospital I delivered at does kangaroo care and keeps the baby on mom skin to skin for the first hour or more of the baby's life.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Rest as much as you can before the contractions get too strong, and work on breathing techniques.
