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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My water broke and contractions started about 15 minutes after that.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I have a hip injury from a car accident so after transition, when our boy was descending my hips felt like I was going to break in half... Which was kind of scary.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Both knowing the signs and stages of labor. It was kind of encouraging after I threw up because I was like "oh hey! I must be transitioning! That means baby will be here soon!"
And also knowing that women have been doing this for thousands of years, and my body was designed to birth!
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What surprised you about your birth?
The surrender. Needing to surrender in a way that is so beyond what you have ever known. Your mind and will have to completely surrender to your body, and it's knowing of this process.
How amazing my husband was in supporting, encouraging and being an amazing source of strength. He really stepped up. I truly believe he was a big part of us accomplishing a beautiful birth.
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Do it! Don't let the fear of pain guide you away from something you deep down feel called to. You will surprise yourself in ways you have never known. Find strength in yourself and your partner in ways you will only find here.
It's worth it. And really. You move on and forget the pain.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
BREATHING. (Bradley mothod)
Also, we listened to worship music the whole time. We kept a peaceful, powerful and worshipful environment as I labored and birth. I even would sing in worship as I had contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In a tub, pressed up against my husband, almost squatting? But leaning backwards a bit too.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Unreal. Complexly just awe struck. My husband was weeping behind me. I truly believe he cried for the both of us becuse I as just so awe struck and blown away by this little person that was just so new. My heart and mind couldn't wrap around it.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do it! Don't let the fear of pain guide you away from something you deep down feel called to. You will surprise yourself in ways you have never known. Find strength in yourself and your partner in ways you will only find here.
It's worth it. And really. You move on and forget the pain.
My husband says to other husbands:
NEVER STOP SUPPORTING. If your wife feels called. Stand beside her in that. If there is fear, remind her how bad she wants it. And don't worry. The money will come.
