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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was cramps all day but just figured it was Braxton Hicks. At around 10pm, I was attempting to go to bed but couldn't get comfortable and had to use the bathroom several times. I started to time how often I was uncomfortable and called the midwife. I got into the tub and when the doula came she confirmed that I was in early labour. We went to the hospital once my water broke a few hours later.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Staying focused was sometimes difficult. There was moments when my breathing started to get away from me, but our doula helped get me back on track.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Lots of reading, Ina May Gaskin's books were very helpful. I practiced visualizations and breathing exercises and we hired a doula. Our doula was awesome and her support tremendous!
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What surprised you about your birth?
The speed! My first birth was a scheduled cesarean because my son was breech. I never went into labour so I thought my body would treat this labour as a first and o was preparing myself for an 18-24 hour experience. I delivered our so at 10am, 12 hours after I realized I was in labour.
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Read as much as you can! Surround yourself with people who support your wishes and hire a doula if possible! It is well worth going natural!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Our doula out counter pressure on my back which helped enormously.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back in bed, which was not how I pictured my delivery but it was what the midwife wanted since I was a VBAC.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I was in awe of how fast it happened and how great I felt after! Sure I was exhausted but I felt great and he was perfect. I was also shocked at his size, I wasn't expecting to have a 9 lb 5 oz baby!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Read as much as you can! Surround yourself with people who support your wishes and hire a doula if possible! It is well worth going natural!
