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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When my water broke at 1:30 am
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I remained 1 and 2 cm dilated with no change for 15 hours. By that point I was becoming exhausted and couldn't imagine going on for another 15 hours without medicine. I felt ready for any relief, including a c-section which I had previously been strongly against.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Using every kind of pain management I could helped immeasurably. Hypnobirth class, yoga, belly dancing movements, essential oils, and acupressure combined all helped me deal with the pain at each stage.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How "easy" the pushing stage was! Knowing baby was almost out to meet us gave me new strength and excitement to push to the end.
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Research, read, don't give up, and do what's best for you and baby!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Hypnobirth mediation and stretches
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Lying on my back
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I had carried him for months and now can look into his beautiful face
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Research, read, don't give up, and do what's best for you and baby!