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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When my midwife checked me and said "yea. You're in good labor!"
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Not knowing what to expect. This was my fourth baby but first unmedicated out of hospital birth. Although I felt very prepared, each birth is different and it's different for everyone.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Staying active!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast and easy it was. I went to my midwife appointment at 1pm. I was unsure if I was in labor and he was born at 4:24pm.
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Just commit to it and go for it! I loved all my birthing experiences but my midwife and birthing center made all the difference!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Moving, swaying my hips back and forth, squatting, pulling against the bed, laboring in the tub. I also thanked God for every contraction because I was just so excited to meet our new baby.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Laying on my back on the bathroom floor! That wasn't planned but that's what happened.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I couldn't even believe he was out! I asked "Is he out" and everyone said "Yes! Look down he's on your chest!" We also didn't know it was a boy ahead of time so that added to our excitement!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Just commit to it and go for it! I loved all my birthing experiences but my midwife and birthing center made all the difference!
