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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I went to rest after an afternoon of what I thought were Braxton Hicks, while lying still my water broke. It was pretty apparent after that!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I always worry about being able to clearly communicate what I do/don't want as part of my birth experience (outside of a medical emergency). It's so important to be in the "zone" that's it's helps to have someone else be your advocate so you can focus on the important birth work.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Not letting myself hear or see "scary" stories of births gone wrong. Your brain is easily programmed & I didn't want to risk programming scary scenarios.
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What surprised you about your birth?
Baby 3 surprised us by coming 12 days early. Our first 2 were both around 1 week past their due date so I was settling in for a few more weeks!
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Trust your body to do what it was meant to. If you feel like you can't go on you are extremely close to meeting your baby so don't give up!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I found that movement & low guttural sounds were the most helpful during strong contraction. Laboring in the jetted tub helped too.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I tried other positions but I delivered in a semi-reclined position with my feet held by nurses to give me traction for pushing.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I spontaneously shouted I love you to him as I picked him up as he came out!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Trust your body to do what it was meant to. If you feel like you can't go on you are extremely close to meeting your baby so don't give up!
