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When did you realize you were really in labor?
At around 12:30 am on December 4th. I had been experiencing mild contractions since about 8:30 pm, went to bed assuming they were Braxton Hicks. They continued to progress- longer, stronger, and closer together until I finally couldn't lay/sleep through them anymore.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing was not going natural. I've been passionate about going medication/intervention free but decided to get an epidural. It was gut wrenching to decide but I felt strong being in charge of my decision. (My first labor was much different.)
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I did a lot of reading about staying calm and speaking truths to myself. I also was blessed to have two close friends who'd recently had their second children and shared their birth stories with me.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised at how much faster things progressed.
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Be proud of your choice, no matter what you choose. We are the ones in control of our own experience and ought to be empowered to make decisions that work best for us.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing, singing and dancing/rocking helped me the most.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered while lying on my back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I was overwhelmed with relief and shock holding my baby boy for the first time. My body felt so at ease the instant I delivered even while I delivered the placenta and was stitched up from a minor tear.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Be proud of your choice, no matter what you choose. We are the ones in control of our own experience and ought to be empowered to make decisions that work best for us.
