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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had cramping all day but by the time I got home from my errands I went to lie down. Within an hour I knew this was it. The contractions were intense and becoming more frequent.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The length of time I was in Labor. The pain was manageable for about 2/3 of the time. By the end I was exhausted.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Hire a doula!!!!!! She was my angel.
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What surprised you about your birth?
When they showed me the babies head in the mirror I smiled the rest of my pushing. I was surprised how excited I was to meet him!
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Prepare, prepare, prepare! I read everything. I only spoke to women who shared positive birth stories. I also made the decision early on to go natural and I never even saw anything else as an option. Also hire a doula. I'm sure I wouldn't have made it through without mine!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Guided relaxation, dim lights, showering, and moving around.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In the bed, kind of rotating between all fours and on my back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Absolutely indescribable. I instantly felt a love I never knew possible.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Prepare, prepare, prepare! I read everything. I only spoke to women who shared positive birth stories. I also made the decision early on to go natural and I never even saw anything else as an option. Also hire a doula. I'm sure I wouldn't have made it through without mine!
