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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had been having on again off again contractions for three days due to an OP baby, but I woke up in the middle of the night on Thursday Oct 12th with strong contractions staying 5-6 minutes apart. That's when I knew I was in labor and would get to meet my baby girl soon.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
It's honestly all mental, the most challenging time for me is before labor actually begins. It's me second guessing my ability to cope. Once labor begins I'm too busy (thanks to a great doula and a wonderful and supportive husband) and so well supported that I don't really second guess my decision.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Use essential oils in my perineum (frankincense and lavender) and mentally preparing myself. Knowing that millions of women have gone and done with before me and that labor and delivery is a natural process for my body.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How absolutely relaxing the birthing tub is! I didn't give birth in it, but it was so relaxing and such a pain reliever in that last hour before I started pushing. Also, how quickly labor does go by, we labored in the hospital for 12 1/2 hours and it literally flew by.
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You can do it! You are stronger than you think. Always have an amazing support team that you 100% trust and who will push you to keep going and to stay positive.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Dance/swaying with my husband, the warm birthing tub, relaxation and breathing, quoting scripture, and running through contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my side.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I was so happy to have her in my arms!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! You are stronger than you think. Always have an amazing support team that you 100% trust and who will push you to keep going and to stay positive.
