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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My husband and I were taking our daughter to a gymnastic event, I was only 37 weeks so I didn't think anything of being active and playing with her. I went to get up to go talk to the office and my water broke! I thought I had wet myself at first, but nope!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing was not giving into the pain, I just screamed so LOUD when it go to transition time. I asked for an epidural at that point, they didn't check me prior and they really should have. It took over thirty minutes to place the epidural correctly; and then five minutes later my son was born. - The epidural didn't kick in until after I gave birth! I really wish that I just powered through a bit more and never asked for one.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
My supportive husband and my online friends were the biggest help. They were my advocates, reminding me that I was in charge, that I had options, and that I was a warrior. I chatted with my friends for most of early labor and it really helped me put my head in the right space.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quick and fast our labor actually was! With my daughter she was: sunny side up, stuck in my birth canal, I pushed for over five hours, and needed forceps for her to come earth side with a third degree tear..
This birth was a complete 180. My son was in the correct position and I pushed him out in under five minutes with no tearing!
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Trust your instincts. Do your research and then go with the flow- labor is a crazy magical and unpredictable time in your life- just embrace it all.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I was on that silly birthing ball almost the whole time!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering on my back, but for me that was the most comfortable- I had other options but chose on my back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was an instant relief and rush of hormones. I just stared at my husband saying "He's here" over and over on repeat! Haha
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Trust your instincts. Do your research and then go with the flow- labor is a crazy magical and unpredictable time in your life- just embrace it all.
