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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I wasn't induced so in the hospital and realized I was in labor when my contractions starting coming thick and fast and I had such heavy pressure in my bum and tops of legs
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing was the pushing stage. My waters had still not gone so I was pushing out a bag of bulging membranes which was really hard, I had zero pain relief throughout and the pushing stage was the only time I thought about pain relief.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Most definitely the most helpful thing was practicing hypnobirthing and mediation/breathing techniques during the pregnancy and build up to birth. This really helped me to stay calm, focused and in control during my contractions.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was so surprised with how amazing and relaxing the birthing pool was. And how it totally helped relieve the pressure down below and the intense contractions. The warm water really acted like a natural pain relief. it was lovely to experience a water birth.
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I would encourage other mums to practice hypnobirthing. But really practice the mantras and breathing at home as it's only by spending some time practicing that you really get in the zone and feel more attuned with the body and in control. If you can use a pool to labor or give birth in too then you won't regret it
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Definitely the warm water in the birthing pool and the hypnobirthing breathing techniques
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I gave birth on the pool squatting upright and leaning over the edge of the pool
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It felt like a dream come true that our gender surprise baby was finally in our arms, and we had the big reveal moment of Its a GIRL!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
I would encourage other mums to practice hypnobirthing. But really practice the mantras and breathing at home as it's only by spending some time practicing that you really get in the zone and feel more attuned with the body and in control. If you can use a pool to labor or give birth in too then you won't regret it
