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When did you realize you were really in labor?
After several conversations with my midwife leading up to my labor she prepared me for the tell tell signs of labor. The most noticeable one being the the breaking of my water followed by intense contractions. I experienced contractions followed by the loss of my mucus plug and the breaking of my water all within 30 minute time span. At around 6:00 pm I notified my midwife of what had taken place and we headed over to The Birthing Place, birth center, upon arrival I knew that I would be bringing my child earthside on that day.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The willingness to allow my body to do exactly what it was made to do. I trusted myself I just need to remind myself to trust the process. My midwife was a reminder to breathe during the moments that my flesh took over.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Share my thoughts and concerns with my support system. Having that support was beneficial in delivering my baby 100% natural.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was totally surprised at how great the birthing pool felt. The intensity of the contractions were bearable when I immersed my body in the pool. The energy during my birth and calmness of my husband, midwife and mom was absolutely heaven sent. I was also shocked at how quickly I progressed during labor. I did not anticipate everything moving so quickly.
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Find a supportive provider, Support team and I cannot stress enough to trust the process. This is your journey and you are capable of birthing your baby naturally.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Before entering the birthing pool Afua, my midwife, would remind me to breathe during each contraction so breathing and swaying really helped while having pressure and oils applied to my lower back.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered my baby sitting in the birth pool. This allowed me do something if always dreamed of, to catch my baby with my very own hands.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I was overwhelmed with a ton of emotions. I was able to release that energy into the world and into my son. Being a VBA2C mom and being told that I'd never be able to have a TOL nor an all natural birth was devastating. The Birthing Place owner, Afua believed in me and reminded me that "My birth was something to want" she gave me my chance and for that I'm grateful. I'm still taken back when I watch my birth video.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do your research, trust yourself and your body, make sure to have a strong support system that will feed you great energy and not doubt you or the process.
