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When did you realize you were really in labor?
The day after Hurricane Matthew skirted our coastline of Jacksonville Beach, I started to feel crampy. I awoke that morning in our midwives home with no power but with a beautiful, cool breeze flowing through the home. She had generously offered for us to stay with her inland, since we had been evacuated from our beach front home and I was approaching 39 weeks pregnant. My cramps continued throughout that day but stayed about 20 min apart. We were able to return to our home that afternoon and began to put back together our very minorly damaged home. We were so lucky and so happy we had electricity! As the day continued on, my cramps became stronger but still far apart. My midwife came by to check me and I was completely shocked to hear I was at 5cm, almost 6cm!! We were going to meet our baby today! So off to the beach we went to walk this baby out! Which I did until I reached 8cm and then I went home for the lovely tub in my living room awaiting me!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Trusting that you're not dying or breaking apart. Knowing that surrendering is really the best way to ride the waves. Understanding that your contractions or rushes can't be stronger than you- because they ARE you. These are all things I found hard to do during my first natural birth and something I focused on and practiced for my second natural birth.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Yoga, reading, visualization - Spiritual Midwifery was amazing to read
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What surprised you about your birth?
How easy the beginning was. I rode the waves and continued the day as normal as much as possible. I walked the beach and even ate a quick sandwhich at my favorite coffee shop before heading home and having my baby 2 hours later. The active labor was almost fun and enjoyable. Transition and actually pushing my baby out were extremely hard, as expected, but the beginning was surprisingly fun!
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Do your research.
Knowledge is key. Read books, watch positive birth videos and get excited!! Exercise throughout pregnancy and feel good about yourself. Confidence in your mind body and spirit are extremely important when you leave on your journey to go get your baby, naturally ?
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Keeping my hands and mouth OPEN! It helped so much! Also having affirmations hung up in my birthing space for others to read to me when I needed a boost of confidence.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On all fours in the tub
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazingggg! It was unreal to be holding my fresh baby and having my first born right there in my other arm!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do your research. Knowledge is key. Read books, watch positive birth videos and get excited!! Exercise throughout pregnancy and feel good about yourself. Confidence in your mind body and spirit are extremely important when you leave on your journey to go get your baby, naturally ?
