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When did you realize you were really in labor?
After 2 births, I've only ever had painful contractions when in active labor. Around 10 am I started feeling some uncomfortable contractions and by noon I was sure I was in labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Trusting my body and the process. My 1st labor was long and I was given pitocin and opted for an epidural and because of that experience I had trouble trusting that my body and mind were capable of birthing naturally.
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IMG_1841a-1
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Hiring a doula, educating myself and chiropractic care.
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What surprised you about your birth?
That the super intense part of labor was so short that I gave birth in my car in front of the hospital! I had planned to do most of my laboring at home. I was coping really well and a really strong contraction hit. The next one happened a few minutes later and my body was pushing. That's when we headed to the hospital. I did arrive in time for a hospital nurse to catch him, but not soon enough to get into the hospital first.
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Trust, support and education. Trust your body, your baby and the process. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Educate yourself so that you are confident in your decisions and know what to expect.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Vocalization and lower back pressure/massage. I also found it comfortable to sit on a birthing ball for most of my labor. I also tried to ignore it for as long as possible.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was sitting up (semi-reclined) in my backseat.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing. There aren't words.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Trust, support and education. Trust your body, your baby and the process. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Educate yourself so that you are confident in your decisions and know what to expect.
