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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was induced in my week 39 due to a complicated medical history. So we arrived at 7 AM ready to get the process going!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging this was knowing I could ask for an epidural at anytime and choosing not too. I had to be very strong mentally. I knew the contractions would hurt more but this being my first baby I had nothing to compare it too.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Research, research, research! I am a biologist and getting every little piece of research increased my confident in a natural birth. I also have a good friend that has had 2 kids naturally. She was key in my preparations for childbirth and during labor.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The amount of pain the human body can endure. Even with the extreme pain the labor flew by, I know my body was designed to give birth.
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Practice your breathing and do alot of research. You can do it, but its not easy.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I ended up utilizing the nitrous oxide, I still felt all of the pain but I think it mentally helped me breath through the contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
on my back with my legs held way back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
AMAZING, all I could think was how was this beautiful boy inside me!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Practice your breathing and do alot of research. You can do it, but its not easy.