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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was sitting on my exercise ball working on a project (I used it instead of a chair at my desk during pregnancy) when I started feeling consistent contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Probably the most challenging thing about going natural, especially leading up to it, for me was the mental aspect and knowing it was up to me (along with the support of my husband and midwife of course) to find the best ways to help comfort and cope. Turns out, it actually was a very quick and easy 100% natural birth!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Walked, walked and walked.... and ate lots of dates!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast and easy she came!
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You can do it! It may be the hardest thing you've every done, but you were made for this! I truly believed that truth with the births of both of our children, and I know it made a difference.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
During early contractions, I leaned into my exercise ball and my husband massaged my back. Once contractions intensified, I felt better standing and leaning into our kitchen counter, while my husband gave me hip compressions and/or massaged my lower back. During transition, I went into the birth tub and that warm water felt soooo good! Also, I kept thinking how each contraction was bringing our son or daughter closer.. we were waiting to find out the gender at birth, so it was super exciting!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Squatting in the birth tub.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Incredible!! and It's a GIRL!! I could hardly think except feel such an immense love for this tiny little human - our daughter! Still brings tears to my eyes.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! It may be the hardest thing you've every done, but you were made for this! I truly believed that truth with the births of both of our children, and I know it made a difference. I'd also recommend practicing some good massage techniques with your spouse before birth..that helped us as a team with finding what ended up working best in and throughout labor. Lastly, I never before felt so connected with my baby and in touch with the whole process when I was able to move around, adjust according to how my body was feeling, etc, so going natural is amazing!!!
