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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I had to breathe through some contractions that were consistently 5-7 minutes apart.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
When the doctor said if I want pain meds I had to decide asap because the baby was coming soon. I had some moments of self doubt of if I could actually do it naturally.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Being informed about my childbirth options and have plans A, B and C in my head (and on paper). Also having my husband be so supportive and encouraging was a huge benefit!
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quick it was (5.5 hours total), especially compared to my first two labors.
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Trust that your body can do it but also set realistic expectations for yourself and your partner or support team. Also be clear with the nurse about your ideal plan from the beginning and they will hopefully be very supportive too!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
"Slow dance" rocking with my husband and leaning on the birth ball. Staying out of the hospital bed unless I needed to be checked really helped me stay focused and allowed me to move around and try different strategies.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In the hospital bed, squat sitting while pushing.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! I was so excited to meet him and proud of myself for finally having a natural birth after 2 previous labors that did not go as I envisioned.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Trust that your body can do it but also set realistic expectations for yourself and your partner or support team. Also be clear with the nurse about your ideal plan from the beginning and they will hopefully be very supportive too!