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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had been in non-active labor for about 2 days before my water broke around 8 in the morning on January 27.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Transitioning was terrible. This was my 5th baby and it was the worst out of them all. I was shaking through every contraction and there was t a position that was comfortable except sitting on the bed, leaning on the IV pole the nurse brought me cause it sturdy and helped me walk around. We named it Fred.
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IMG_4044
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The yoga ball and reading birthing stories. Lots of praying and scripture. Every pregnancy I seem to psych myself out for and this was a very anxiety filled birth for no reason at all.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I went from my water breaking at 8 to 4CM at 11:00am to my baby being born at 11:28am. I almost delivered her because of how fast it went. It was beautiful and scary and completely natural. I think we often forget that although childbirth is a big deal that it's also one of the most natural things for our bodies to do.
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Listen to your body and trust your instincts. Try different positions during contractions to see what feels best for you. Don't be afraid of what is happening.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Leaning on a pole during contractions while my husband rubbed my lower back. Reminding myself to relax everything else during a contraction helped tremendously! Picturing the contractions like climbing a mountain and being mindful of my feet, legs, arms and neck and how relaxed they were made the pain less daunting.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my side and then I rolled to my back while waiting to deliver the placenta so I could hold her.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I love the warmth of their little bodies and seeing this human that grew inside of me.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Listen to your body and trust your instincts. Try different positions during contractions to see what feels best for you. Don't be afraid of what is happening.
