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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was scheduled to be induced that day and was having some back pain, Then I started feeling gushes of fluid leaking when I moved, my OB confirmed it was my amniotic fluid! Then I knew it was the real deal.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Coping with the contractions and overthinking. I had all back labor thanks my little one's position and my contractions were 4 mins apart from the get-go. I felt like I never got a great break or a slow build up. I kept thinking I had hours and hours more of this, even though in reality I did not.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I kept active throughout my whole pregnancy and we hired a doula. My birth ended up taking 8 hours from 1 cm to baby and I think being in good shape and having an extra support person in addition to my husband made all the difference.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was planning for a long labor 24+ hours. So when it happened in 8 hours I wasn't mentally prepared. It was intense from the get-go and I kept thinking I had forever longer to go, which really made coping hard. Also, nothing beats that final push and the moment they place your baby on your chest. It was the best moment.
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It was the only childbirth class we took, so it was so useful in learning about all of the different aspects of birth. We also love the different exercises and coping strategies. They were very helpful.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Counter pressure, rhythmic breathing and laboring in the shower or on hands and knees.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was amazing. The sheer relief and love were overwhelming. It will forever be one of the best moments of my life.
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What did you name your baby, and why?
Owen. It means young warrior and we knew he would face some challenges in life. We hope he lives up to his name and rises to every challenge life brings.
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How did the Mama Natural Birth Class help you in your childbirth?
It was the only childbirth class we took, so it was so useful in learning about all of the different aspects of birth. We also love the different exercises and coping strategies. They were very helpful.
