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When did you realize you were really in labor?
About 3:45 am, after a couple strong contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Transition in the back of my van on the way to the hospital!!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Remembering that I could get through any temporary pain to have the most amazing end result.
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What surprised you about your birth?
That I actually LOVED it and would deliver in the hospital all over again :)
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Completely surrendering every ounce of yourself into the contraction and remembering “just get through this one right here, right now” focusing on nothing else.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Being able to be in whatever position my body told me to be in and not fighting any contractions. Completely surrendering every ounce of yourself into the contraction and remembering “just get through this one right here, right now” focusing on nothing else.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Although I labored on my hands and knees the entire time including most of the pushing, I laid on my side from crowning until delivery.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding your child for the first time is euphoric. All the time and energy you put in during the pregnancy and the birth has finally paid off, and here is your grand prize!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
The pain is temporary. You focus on the contraction you are experiencing right then and there without looking ahead and without trying to find an escape. You can let the pain drown you, flail around and panic. Or you can completely surrender and allow yourself to just flow with it. Remember- there will be relief. After each contraction, savor those moments of peace and REST. You can do this!
