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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I don't think I ever did. I had labor that started and stopped for 2 full days prior to me actually giving birth. So I had gone into a place in my head where I knew and understood baby was coming but that it could be days later.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going natural wasn't the birth itself. My body did what it was made to do. Abnormal and natural process. The hardest part about going natural was the fight with the VA to cover the birth (which they didn't) and the steady stream of negative comments and unsolicited advice from medical professionals about the "horrors" of going natural.
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IMG_1968
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I listened to positive affirmations regarding childbirth. Daily. I meditated and prayed over my birth. Basically I got to a place of peace and trusted the process and I stayed there.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How long it lasted. This was baby number five. I expected to not stay pregnant as long as I did and also not to be in labor for 61 hours.
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When it feels like you can not take anymore pain is when the baby is about to come. Persevere. It's well worth it. The baby and I benefited so much from not having the interference of drugs or other interventions. I went into this labor calm and fully focused on giving birth.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The birthing pool and my husband placing counter pressure on my hips and low back.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered on my hands and knees.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
She was slippery and warm. I couldn't focus right away on the loving feelings. I couldn't focus at all on anything. I feel that my flight or fight responses were still firing strong at that point. It took me about an hour to come down and relax.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
When it feels like you can not take anymore pain is when the baby is about to come. Persevere. It's well worth it. The baby and I benefited so much from not having the interference of drugs or other interventions. I went into this labor calm and fully focused on giving birth.
