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When did you realize you were really in labor?
After weeks of prodromal labor I woke up on the morning of the birth with MUCH stronger contractions and diarrhea (Gross!). I couldn't stand up straight during the contractions, I had to lean over and moan through them.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
For me, it was waiting for labor to start on it's own and not knowing when that would be.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Lots of prayer, birth art, natural childbirth books, and my training as a Doula.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was most surprised by how easy it seemed!
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You CAN do it! Your baby WILL come out! Create a strong birth team to surround you and educate yourself! Focus on the positive reasons why you are choosing what you are, not just the negative reasons why you are avoiding certain things.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Position changes, laboring in warm water, counter-pressure, low moaning.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back, surprisingly!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It felt amazing and a bit surreal! My first thought was, "You're so much bigger than I thought you'd be!"
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You CAN do it! Your baby WILL come out! Create a strong birth team to surround you and educate yourself! Focus on the positive reasons why you are choosing what you are, not just the negative reasons why you are avoiding certain things.
