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When did you realize you were really in labor?
At 11pm, about four hours before giving birth!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Relaxing and having confidence in myself in the days leading up to the birth.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Several things. I hired a doula, researched my options, and read the Bradley Method and hypnobirthing books.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I remained relaxed and was surprised with the speed in which labor progressed. By the time we showed up at the hospital, I was already 10cm +1 and ready to push! After 9 mins of pushing, our baby was born en caul!! THAT was the biggest surprise! I wish we had a pic of him in the bag, but it broke a few seconds later. He is our lucky little babe.
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Believe that your body has the power and ability to give birth. Relax, and let the contractions do the work for you. Surround yourself with positive support from experienced people early on, and be aware of the options you have at the particular facility you will be giving birth at.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Relaxing my shoulders and jaw in early labor. Then moaning, and then breathing in and out in counts of 3 as the pain got more intense in transition and stage 2.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was on my knees in the floor. For pushing, I pulled on a sheet that was tied to the bithing bar on the bed.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was amazing. I couldn't stop cooing and my husband just laughed with joy!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Believe that your body has the power and ability to give birth. Relax, and let the contractions do the work for you. Surround yourself with positive support from experienced people early on, and be aware of the options you have at the particular facility you will be giving birth at.
