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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When my water broke at 11pm at night as I was getting into bed.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The pain is really exhausting.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
A doula and a bunch of classes.
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What surprised you about your birth?
That my body did exactly what my mom's did. Water broke before contractions and 15 hours later, I still had not dilated. I was devastated that I wound up needing a c-section but it was not as bad as I had thought. I was so worried a c section would mean problems breastfeeding and we had none.
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At the end of the day, if things do not go as planned, and they probably won't, it's okay :) Once you see and hold your little one, none of the "other stuff" matters!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The shower
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Unfortunately, a c section. My water had been broken for 15 hours, the baby had not dropped and I was not dilating. It turned out being best because he had also pooped.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Incredible!!! He latched on with the help of our doula and it was amazing.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do your research and don't always believe what your doctor or medical staff tells you is best. Question it and do your research before you make a decision. They should be supportive of this, otherwise find a new doctor. Impatient doctors are usually not the best.
Watch the Business of Birth!!!
Find natural birth support groups and classes.
Find an online support community that you can access anytime of day and get your nerves out to other understanding moms. This support is SO helpful!
Get a doula!
At the end of the day, if things do not go as planned, and they probably won't, it's okay :) Once you see and hold your little one, none of the "other stuff" matters!
