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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up at 8 a.m. Sunday morning and knew right away this was the real thing. I had been having Braxton Hicks for weeks already so I was just waiting for the real contractions to start!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not believing in myself... this was my 4th child. The first 2 I used pain meds in labor, the 3rd I wanted to use pain meds but couldn't because she was born so fast! So I was terrified of what was going to happen this time.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Reading birth stories, learning to relax and breathe. ! I taught myself that I would just go along with what my body wanted and needed.
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What surprised you about your birth?
It was my longest labor yet the most gentle! My first 3 births went so fast... i couldnt keep up ! My first labor was 5.5 hrs ,my next 2 were 3 hrs, and this one was 7 hrs! I didn't expect it to be that long and definitely not that gentle!! ?
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Read lots of birth stories! Or watch birth stories! You might not do the same as they do but it will build your confidence. Also just go with whatever your body tells you to do.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I walked the whole time I was in labor. When a contraction hit I leaned into my husband. Also a cool cloth helped keep me calm during contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Semi reclining. I had planned to be on hands and knees but this was just what felt the most comfortable that moment!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Exhilarating ? we had waited 9 long months for that moment and we were overjoyed when we could finally see his face ?
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Read lots of birth stories! Or watch birth stories! You might not do the same as they do but it will build your confidence. Also just go with whatever your body tells you to do.
