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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized that active labor had officially started when my contractions where intense enough that I couldn't talk through them. And they were constantly coming on, one after another. It all happened so quickly. My midwife suggested I try the Miles Circuit exercises to help start labor, since I was already at 6 CM and 90% effaced. Within 15 minutes or so after doing the first of the Miles Circuit, active labor started. Within less than two hours, our daughter was born.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing was not knowing what to expect. My first birth with my first daughter I had an epidural. So I didn't know how intense the pain would get. Thank God it was all so fast. Within 45 minutes after we arrived at the hospital, she was born.
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SDSGF-17-of-37
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Having our doula there was definitely a huge blessing and encouragement. She helped me focus and breathe through the pain of each contraction. She kept me thinking positive and supported me through the entire experience. Also, when I started my 3rd trimester I went to a chiropractor once a week. He specialized in the Webster Technique which is great for getting the baby in optimal position for labor. I also tried curb walking as my midwife recommended and tried to stay as active as possible.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was truly amazed at what an incredible experience it turned out to be. Even though it was the most intense pain I've ever felt, it was all so beautiful and truly worth every moment. The best part of it all was the overwhelming feeling of love and joy I had as soon as she came out and the midwife handed her to me and put her on my chest, skin to skin. It was a moment I will never forgot.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Deep, low moaning sounds helped me keep track of the pain through each contractions. The best pain relief for me was being able to get into the tub with warm water. The water was so soothing and I was able to relax enough to reach 10 CM within about 5 minutes.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered my daughter on my hands and knees, leaning forward. It was the best position for me because it allowed gravity to do its job and I also believe it helped me avoid tearing.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
When I held my baby girl for the first time, it was an incredible feeling of pure bliss. I was so relieved that the hard part was over and now I could just enjoy these precious first moments of holding her, looking her in the eyes and having her on my chest, skin to skin. It was one of the best moments of my life.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Believe in yourself and in your body's ability to birth your child! A big part of labor is also mental, so make peace with the fact that it's going to be hard and it's going to hurt, but it will be over soon, and it will all be worth it! Stay as active as you can throughout your pregnancy. Do your squats! Use that yoga exercise ball! Drink that red raspberry leaf tea! Pay the extra money for a doula! Choose your birthing team very carefully. Have a wonderful support team and system that will help guide you towards the birth experience you desire. And pray! Prayer can really help prepare our hearts and minds for the journey of birth.
