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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up to use the bathroom around 1am and it felt like my water had broke. My water didn't break with my first kiddo so I was unsure if that's what had really happened, but shorty after that bathroom trip contractions started. I was so excited because I was past my due date and over being pregnant at that point. I told my partner Mike to get some rest while I got our things together and started laboring. My goal was to be home for as long as possible before going to the hospital . At 4 am my contractions slowed way down to to 10 minutes apart and I was able to get some sleep. I called my doctor the next morning letting her know that I thought my water had broke and she requested I come into the office. Dr. checked me and confirmed that my water did break and she sent us straight to the hospital. We arrived at the hospital around 11 AM. I was checked at noon and was dilated to seven. The doctor then broke the rest of my water and labor got more intense!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I really wanted a natural birth with this pregnancy because I was unable to have a natural delivery with my first kiddo. But ...... nothing prepared me for the pain! After about four hours I was asking for pain meds but it was too late at that point because I was dilated
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing was having a doula for the ongoing support and coaching. The water was also very helpful. I used both the birthing tub and the shower. I couldn't have done it naturally without both of these tools.
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What surprised you about your birth?
That I was able to do it! My body is amazing. Although it was super intense during labor, I wouldn't change that experience for the world. Plus the hormone rush afterwards was very helpful :).
Good Luck Mommas . You can do this.
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It's worth it! You can do it. Lastly, trust the process and your body.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
The water helped a ton, as well as having my partner and doula pushing on my hips and back during contractions.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
The last position I thought I would deliver in was on my back. But at the time it felt the best.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Once baby was out I was soooooo relieved labor was over!!!!!!!!!!!!! First I felt relief followed by baby love.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
It's worth it! You can do it. Lastly, trust the process and your body.
