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When did you realize you were really in labor?
After 2 days of contractions, but not feeling sure if it was the real thing, I was sure when I started moaning through my contractions and felt like getting in the tub. I knew it was real, though I was still in denial.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
When I look back, I don't feel like any part of our home birth was challenging. If I had to choose something, I would say... knowing that people were in my kitchen, and I knew they wouldn't put things away the same way I would, after they made food. Also, one of my sisters or mom finished my ice cream
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
My husband and I took a natural birth course called Birth Boot camp. Even with this being my 3rd pregnancy, I still learned SO much. It also helped my husband to learn how he could be most helpful.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How amazing it felt.how powerful and in control I felt. I was surprised at how much the warm water of the tub helped ny pain level.
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Do it. Trust your body. You literally can have a baby naturally, with no pain meds.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Being in the tub. I had no wish to be anywhere but the tub. Also, my sister gave me amazing hand massages.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Sitting on my knees. No, actually sitting in one leg with the other leg up, but bent at my knee, while grasping the side of the tub. One hand down to feel the baby.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It felt amazing. The pain literally immediately stopped when she came out. Also, all I could think was "oh my goodness, my butt feels instantly better"
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do it. Trust your body. You literally can have a baby naturally, with no pain meds.
