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When did you realize you were really in labor?
At 4:30 in the morning when the cramps were actually coming in waves!! 2-3 min apart.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The intensity of transition and wanting to push but having to wait until 10 cm dilation.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Lots of research. Watching natural births, and reading birth stories, good and bad, to prepare myself for anything. Also, staying in shape. Running until week 30, elliptical 30 weeks on, walking, ect.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The fact that 16 hours felt quick. No matter the pain, it was totally doable! And, finding out after it was over that baby was sunny side up, meaning the labor was actually harder than it could have been.
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Believe in yourself. You can do it!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing!!!! And essential oils.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back. Baby’s heartbeat kept dropping a little so it was required that the monitor stay on my belly. Not in my birth plan, but it’s ok!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing. Like no other feeling in the world.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Believe in yourself. You can do it!
