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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had gone to bed with minor cramping because I wasn't sure if what I was feeling were really contractions. At about 2am the pain had become to intense for me to sleep through and that's when I knew I was in labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Staying focused enough to get through each contraction. Once you get through one contraction, the next one will be stronger then the last.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Educated myself on the process of childbirth and the different stages.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The length of time I spent laboring. It was a long and hard 40 hours give or take. Once I reached a 6cm dilation I stopped making any progress so that was brutal for me.
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Do your research and understand that it is painful hard work but ultimately worth it in the long run. Stay as fit as possible because it will benefit you during labor.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Warm water really helped me immensely when it came to pain relief. I stood in the shower for 45 min letting the water hit my belly and lower back. I also spent time in a huge warm bath with warm towels around my neck.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered my son on my hands and knees. I would crouch low in between contractions and poke my bottom up in the air to push. After about an hour his head came out and with the next contraction the rest of his body. I was really proud because pushing was tons of hard work.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It was unbelievable and so surreal at the same time. Best feeling ever!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do your research and understand that it is painful hard work but ultimately worth it in the long run. Stay as fit as possible because it will benefit you during labor.