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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I went in for an induction, I had already been having Braxton Hicks contractions for a couple of weeks, but nothing painful at all.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing for me was really just relaxing my body. When I started to feel pain, I knew right way that baby was off position because all the pain was in my back. After I knew that, I was just so worried that I was going to need a c-section that I just couldn't fully relax. (I did end up getting an epidural after 3 hours of pushing with baby not turning right, so my pelvic muscles could relax; and after 2 more hours of pushing with the epidural, I did end up getting a section (almost 30 hours after starting the induction) because he just wouldn't turn and the vacuum didn't do anything either).
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8
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I did a fair amount of researching coping techniques, and took 2 classes in my third trimester. The most helpful thing was my husband's involvement. He was an incredible coach and so supportive of me during labor and birth.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I think my stamina and stubbornness surprised me most. By the time he was delivered, I have been awake for almost 48 hours, 30 of those in the hospital laboring. When my doctor suggested an epidural because I was stuck at 4cm for a a while, I stuck to what I wanted and made it to complete and pushing. There were many times where I said flat out that I just couldn't do it, but with the amazing support and help of my husband, and a co-worker (we are both nurses at a Woman's hospital, she has an LD background), I feel like I made my very best effort to go natural even if the outcome was not exactly as planned. But, the section and recovery went well, and I have an amazing and healthy baby!
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Have a partner/family member/support person there with you! One who totally supports your decision and will go with what you want and advocate for you and encourage you!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Getting in a tub helped a lot, as did my husband using counter pressure to massage my hips/lower back while I was both on hands and knees and on a birth ball. Being reminded to breathe deeply and exhale while making low pitched noises was also helpful.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On an OR table, eventually. But I did attempt pushing on my back, on my side, and hands and knees.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Very surreal. After such a lengthy delivery, I was absolutely exhausted; but I immediately forgot all of that the first time I held him. So much love and waiting and praying went creating and carrying that little life. It was amazing.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Have a partner/family member/support person there with you! One who totally supports your decision and will go with what you want and advocate for you and encourage you! I really don't believe I would have made it to the point of pushing without my husband.
