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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had my membrane swept at noon and went home to take a nap. I woke to contractions at 2 pm and new I was in labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Pushing was more challenging than I’d expected. After each pushing episode he would slide back in a bit, which was frustrating.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Reading the stories of others, praying, trusting God and my body. Relaxing during contractions and letting my body do what it needed to do.
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What surprised you about your birth?
It wasn’t as painful as I expected it to be. The contractions were bearable and the time between contractions a sweet relief. I was also surprised at how quickly this baby came (6.5 hours total) compared to my last baby (over 24 hours).
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You can do it! We were created to do this.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Relaxing during contractions and letting my body do what it needed to do.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back in the hospital bed
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Incredible!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! We were created to do this.