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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was really in labor when I went to the bathroom and felt something pop! In other words, I had been uncomfortable all day long, but that pop made everything real!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going natural was the contractions, as I neared 10cm. This is where kegal exercises really come into play. First of all I had coupling contractions throughout my active labor and they did not stop until my daughter was born. I was uncomfortable and struggling not to push before I was fully dilated. The kegal exercises helped me, a lot. Otherwise, I would have probably ruptured my cervix by pushing to soon.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing I did to prepare for childbirth, was actually two things: exercise and taking a Lamaze class. The exercise kept me active and in pretty good shape, and the Lamaze class gave me insight on everything from conception to childbirth and beyond.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised that I only spent roughly six hours in active labor. The pain was bearable! I think what hurt the most was pushing my daughter out. As I began to push, my first reaction was "ouch that hurt" but shortly after it was all over. I had two years, but I never even felt them.
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In the end, it's all worth it because of the precious bundle you're able to hold. We as women were created to go through the birthing process. I say why alter it.. my body knew exactly how and when to do what it needed to. No regrets!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
There was nothing that relieved the pain. But the breathing exercises and various positions learned in Lamaze class helped to make the pain tolerable.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered in, I guess what one would call a normal birthing position. You know when you go to the Obgyn and you have to sit upright with your feet in foot rest? That's how I gave birth but there was no table underneath where my legs were.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
One of the best feelings in the world was holding my precious gift from God for the first time. All the pain and discomfort leading up to the big day, as well as during active labor was well worth it.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
I chose to go natural because I did not want any medication or anything in my body while I was going through the process. Yes, I felt uncomfortable. Yes, I felt pain. Yes, there were moments where the thought of an epidural crossed my mind. But, I have no regrets of feeling everything that labor and delivery consists of. My labor went by a lot faster than if I would have opted for medication. In the end, it's all worth it because of the precious bundle you're able to hold. We as women were created to go through the birthing process. I say why alter it.. my body knew exactly how and when to do what it needed to. No regrets!
