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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realize that I was really in labor once I actually was admitted to labor and delivery considering that I have been having contractions and had just had a doctors appointment for couple days before and I was only dilated 3 cm at that time. Once I made it into labor and delivery and the contractions were really unbearable to the point that I didn’t know what to do with myself. One moment I wanted to hold my husband’s hand and the next moment I just wanted to his hand to rub my face until I didn’t know whether I could handle being touched or not. Then my biggest decision came with deciding if I wanted another dose of Stedahl or go for the epidural, which I had been against my entire pregnancy for fear of needles.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going natural is the pain of the contractions. I knew they were going to be painful, but I never imagined just how painful they would really become once active labor started.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing I did to prepare myself for labor was focusing on breathing techniques and different positions to help relieve pain during contractions.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised at how quickly I dilated especially after receiving the epidural and a dose of pitocin. After four great pushes, I couldn’t believe I had given birth and finally was able to hold my beautiful baby boy!
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Holding my son for the first time was the most magical and exciting experience I have ever had in my life!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The pain relief strategies that worked best for me were breathing techniques, lower back massages, and positive reassurance from my husband that I could do it!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering laying on my back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding my son for the first time was the most magical and exciting experience I have ever had in my life!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
For mamas who want to go natural, I would say always remember to breathe through the pain and know that in the end it will be all worth it when you are able to see your beautiful little one.
