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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was having contractions all night starting on Saturday but was able to sleep just fine. I woke up at 6:40am on Sunday and was unable to go back to sleep. I got in the bathtub, turned on my affirmations, and breathed through a couple of hours. I got out and sat on the birth ball for a few minutes and then tried to get comfortable on the bed again. I wanted to push and we quickly got the babysitter and headed to the hospital!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
My sweet baby boy has broad shoulders and had shoulder dystocia. He got stuck on my pubic bone coming out and my midwife helped turn him and ease him out the rest of the way.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I took a Hypnobirthing class! I absolutely loved it! I practiced relaxation techniques, breathing techniques, and listened to affirmations everyday in preparation. I also ate 6 dates every night starting at 34 weeks, had a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar every morning, took Dr. Christopher's birth prep supplements, took magnesium supplements, and drank tons of red raspberry leaf tea!
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was able to stay calm and barely made it to the hospital before delivery! The whole thing was way faster than my prior three birth experiences.
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Prepare! Take a class, stay healthy, stay positive! You can do it!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Relaxation and hypnobirthing breath techniques. The hypnobirthing affirmations also really helped. I listened to them the entire time I was laboring.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I started on my side and ended up sitting in a semi reclined position because of the shoulder dystocia.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing. It's one of the most beautiful things I have ever experienced!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Prepare! Take a class, stay healthy, stay positive! You can do it!
