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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was in labor when I started seeing the bloody show and felt cramps like I've never felt before.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing going natural was staying focused on the truth that I was made for this & that Jesus inside me was providing everything I needed to get through!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful things I did to prepare was get a doula and take a birth class with my spouse! My doula and husband were so incredibly helpful during labor!!
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What surprised you about your birth?
What surprised me about birth was how challenging pushing seemed. I was so exhausted and felt like I wasn't making progress, but a little over an hour later his head was coming out. Also, I was surprised with how strong the amniotic sac was, before his head surfaced, the waterbag was bulging out of me but staying in tact.
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Have supportive people in the room!! It's extra helpful to have your spouse or someone that knows how to comfort you by your side. I also highly recommend hiring a doula because they can continue to reassure you that what you're experiencing is normal , that your progressing, and so many other tips about pushing, positioning, coping etc. that they have learned over the years!! Jesus worked through my doula & husband and enabled me to have he birth I desired!!!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The pain relief strategies that worked the best were the SHOWER - I labored in the shower for a very long time and had a heating pad if I wasn't in the shower. The shower was helpful first for the pain relief provided by warm water and because my husband and I could close the bathroom door and have privacy to stay focused. A plus about not laboring at home... hot water doesn't run out at the hospital!! Woot woot!
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I delivered on my knees face laying on the side of the birthing pool.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It felt surreal holding my baby for the first time. I just kept saying "this is the weirdest thing I have ever done!!! I can't believe that just happened! But goodness it was adorable to see how much him and my husband looked like one another!!!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Have supportive people in the room!! It's extra helpful to have your spouse or someone that knows how to comfort you by your side. I also highly recommend hiring a doula because they can continue to reassure you that what you're experiencing is normal , that your progressing, and so many other tips about pushing, positioning, coping etc. that they have learned over the years!! Jesus worked through my doula & husband and enabled me to have he birth I desired!!!
