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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When my contractions wouldn't stop after changing positions and walking around.
I started timing them and noticed they were in a pattern.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Staying focused, remembering my breathing techniques, and reminding myself that I could do it.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Hired a natural birth educator who taught my husband and I techniques for a successful natural birth.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How smoothly it went. I had a wonderful nurse who was comfortable and supportive with natural births. My delivering doctor wasn't my doctor, but I'm thankful for that now because he was also supportive and encouraging.
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While I was pregnant I would tell my daughter that we were a team and would work together to get her out naturally.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
A hot shower was the best! Changing positions frequently also worked well.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Upright position. I had my arms wrapped under my thighs. My husband and mother each held a foot that I pushed against.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was surreal. A moment I will never forget, I was overcome with joy!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Surround yourself with positive people who encourage you.
Hire a birth educator or doula who will teach you techniques for success and most importantly believe in yourself and your bodies ability to do what it's meant to do.
While I was pregnant I would tell my daughter that we were a team and would work together to get her out naturally.
