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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had been having mild contractions all afternoon, but when I sat down to eat dinner they increased in intensity dramatically! I called my midwife and she was soon on her way.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not knowing when labor would start. My first 2 babies were born after 41 weeks, so I expected to have a wait, but even so, it was very hard waiting for #3's labor to start.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Deciding to have another home birth, assembling an excellent birth team, and regular chiropractic care
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What surprised you about your birth?
My water breaking sounded like and felt like an explosion! It really startled me. I was also pleasantly surprised to only push for 30 minutes, unlike 3 hours each with my other two.
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The most important thing is finding a provider who is 100% supportive of your desires. Hire a doula if you can, stay home as long as possible, or plan a home birth! Trust that your body knows what it's doing.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I labored and birthed in a birth pool. I found the water to be very soothing and supportive.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
A kneeling/squat position in the birth pool
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I cried and cried tears of joy.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
The most important thing is finding a provider who is 100% supportive of your desires. Hire a doula if you can, stay home as long as possible, or plan a home birth! Trust that your body knows what it's doing.
