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Video Interview With Jaclyn
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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was really in labor when the tightening and cramping, (what felt like Braxton Hicks) didn’t go away for over two hours.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing for me about going natural was staying strong mentally for a long 30-hour labor and the painful “ring of fire” at the end!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
By far, the most helpful thing I did was read A LOT of positive birth stories and do the Mama Natural Birth Course with my husband!!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How loud I was!! I never thought I would be one to make a lot of noise but I ended up horse-lipping and deep moaning almost the whole time!!
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My advice would be to become as knowledgeable as you can in the birthing process, read LOTS of positive, unmedicated birth stories and spend lots of time preparing yourself mentally so that you CAN do it!!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The shower and the tub!!! Horse-lipping, deep moaning, holding onto a fine tooth comb and taking long, slow, and deep breaths.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Unbelievable!!! My body naturally produced so much adrenaline and oxytocin that it took me at least an hour to really comprehend that I did it!! I was finally holding my baby!!
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What did you name your baby, and why?
We named our baby girl Ruth Elaine because we loved that it’s an older name not commonly used and also the name meaning, “Compassionate Friend” and “Bright, Shining Light”.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
My advice would be to become as knowledgeable as you can in the birthing process, read LOTS of positive, unmedicated birth stories and spend lots of time preparing yourself mentally so that you CAN do it!!
