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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I went to sleep and had some pretty intense lower back pain and then woke up around 12:30am with contractions. After about 30 minutes I looked at their pattern and realized I was in labor. They were coming every 4 minutes and lasting 60 seconds and nothing changed them (eating, walking, laying down, etc)
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Finding my pattern of relaxation that worked best during labor. It took me about 5 contractions or so to get into a good position and able to relax. As labor progressed I would change positions and would need to get back into a good relaxation state.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Take Bradley classes. I would not have been able to birth my son without them. And hire a doula, she was worth her weight in gold!
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What surprised you about your birth?
That it only took 3 pushes for my son to be born and I was up walking 30 minutes after having him. It is the complete opposite of when I had my daughter. I had an epidural with her and it took 2 hours to push and I wasn't able to get out of bed for over an hour.
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You can do it! Remember that the pain from labor is your own body contracting, it is unlike other pain that is caused by an outside object.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Deep relaxation and masages from my husband and doula.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back pulling my legs up and out to simulate the squatting position. I wanted to squat but it just didn't feel right at the time.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
My most favorite part is feeling how warm they are. It is almost indescribable. So much joy and love bundled up into a tiny baby.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! Remember that the pain from labor is your own body contracting, it is unlike other pain that is caused by an outside object. Your body knows what to do and how much you can handle!
