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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My water broke around 3:30am and at about 6am my contractions were 5 min apart last about 1 minute...I called my midwife and we agreed to meet at the birth center at 7:15am
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
With my first child I had a hospital birth so the nagging feeling that an epidural was an option, along with unsupportive staff made it challenging. With this birth I did not find it challenging to center my thoughts on a peaceful delivery.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The Bradley Method!
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What surprised you about your birth?
That I didn't have a water birth. We had planned on one, but I got out for a short bit to walk and take a shower and I didn't make it back in before baby boy arrived!
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Labor is not only a physical experience, but an emotional and mental one as well.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing techniques and internal mantras were most helpful. I kept repeating January Harshe's line "vaginas do open, babies do come out".
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my side.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing. I was sure we were having a girl (we didn't find out the sex). So I was very surprised when it was a boy.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Take the Bradley Method! It helps you prepare for the stages of labor. Labor is not only a physical experience, but an emotional and mental one as well. Also, having a supportive birthing team is key!
