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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was snuggling on the couch with my 2 older kids when my water broke. Within 15 minutes I was having consistent contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
This was my third child and labor was only 3 hours long. The intensity of cramming all of the sensations of giving birth into such a short period of time was overwhelming. Thankfully I had an awesome husband, midwife, & a doula who consistently reminded me to breathe & surrender.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Before my first child my husband and I did a hypnobirthing class which was very helpful. I used those tactics, the birth breathing especially, in all 3 of my labors.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it was! I still can't believe it was only 3 hours long!!!
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Having a supportive team around you is essential. Talk with other Moms who have gone natural. Don't be afraid to ask every question you can think of. Take a birthing class that will teach you birthing positions and breathing tactics. Then just surrender into the moment knowing that every sensation you feel is your body progressing you towards holding your new bundle of love!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
A birthing tub!!!! Oh man, the relief a birthing tub brought me was monumental. Also, focusing on my breathing was essential. Anytime I got distracted and forgot to breathe, I felt the contractions more intensely. And having my doula do hip compressions while I pushed was awesome too.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On all 4s in the water.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
AMAZING! We don't find out the sex beforehand so there's the joy of finding out it was a boy coupled with this indescribable wave of love and peace!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Having a supportive team around you is essential. Talk with other Moms who have gone natural. Don't be afraid to ask every question you can think of. Take a birthing class that will teach you birthing positions and breathing tactics. Then just surrender into the moment knowing that every sensation you feel is your body progressing you towards holding your new bundle of love!
