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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I started having contractions overnight but was sleepy so I didn’t 100% realize that’s what they were until about 5 am. I had prodromal labor, Braxton Hicks, for so long that I thought this still might be the case. When my husband woke up and saw I was timing them, they were coming every minute to five minutes lasting 30 seconds to a minute. I was one week over my due date.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Waiting on my body. Having no control over when everything would happen, not knowing what it would feel like.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I saw a chiropractor that was certified in the Webster Technique. I hired a doula team and read positive birth stories.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quickly it went and the euphoria afterward. How quickly I rebounded from my other two induced labors with epidurals.
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It’s doable even after you have had a child in other ways. It’s the most rewarding, humbling, beautiful birthing experience I have had.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Counter pressure
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I was so thankful, (she came after two miscarriages In the same year) and in awe of God’s creation. I was on a super high after!
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What did you name your baby, and why?
Malli - she is our third girl and coming up with unique girl names is quite difficult. Ken Ham (creationist) wife’s name is Mally. I’ve always thought it was beautiful and unique. I put an I at the end of Malli’s to honor my twin sister Ashli.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
It’s doable even after you have had a child in other ways. It’s the most rewarding, humbling, beautiful birthing experience I have had. Read positive birth stories! Hiring a doula is a must!