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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Saturday night around 8:30, I started feeling contractions. By 1:45 am my water had broken and things were progressing along.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I think the most difficult part for me was the fact my contractions started at night - before I was able to get any rest. After 31 hours of labor and 48 hours of being awake my body was just exhausted.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Definitely reading about everything to expose yourself to everything. Also listening to podcasts about hearing other women’s experiences was so insightful. Having a healthy pregnancy mentally and physically prepared me for so much, I walked and did yoga daily and it was a lifesaver.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How amazing motherhood is, how it instantly attaches itself to your soul and reshapes you.
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Listen to your body, they are incredible and capable of the most precious gifts we as women can receive.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Slow and low toned exhales, my husband was incredible and was breathing alongside me when the contractions were intense. I would find myself getting caught up in the contractions and he would remind me of my breath, our baby and put my mind back in place.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered on my side with my knees pulled up to my chest.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Surreal
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Listen to your body, they are incredible and capable of the most precious gifts we as women can receive.