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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had a week of daily Braxton Hicks but my water broke and cramping/contractions started an hour later. They were 5 mins apart. I labored at home as long as possible and then my husband and I headed to the hospital.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Once at the hospital, my contractions stalled and I was at 5 cm for 6 hours. This was frustrating because I could feel my body working hard but nothing changed. The hospital staff started discussing pitocin with us and we declined. We asked for two more hours and then to re evaluate.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Evening Primrose Oil
Red Raspberry Leaf Tea
preparing lots of food to have on hand in freezer
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What surprised you about your birth?
30 mins before our two hour timeframe was up I could feel baby drop further into birth canal. I felt the urge to push. I felt ring of fire. In 15 mins I went from 6 cm to delivery. I pushed two times and had no tearing
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Have a good support system and know in your heart what your goals are and stand your ground!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Birthing ball
lavender oil
Leaning on my hubby
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What position did you end up delivering in?
In hospital bed slightly reclined
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Thrilling
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Have a good support system and know in your heart what your goals are and stand your ground!