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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My water broke at 38 weeks on the dot right before I was going into work so it was a slow progression until my body got itself into gear. Make no mistake about it.. you WILL know when you are in labor! ;)
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I am not a patient person so waiting for my body to catch up and be ready and dialated for delivery was challenging.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Honestly, I kept an open mind and had no expectations. I knew I wanted to do everything naturally, but I was prepared for any changes that needed to be made if necessary.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The rush of hormones afterward! I felt like I could run a marathon immediately!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Standing up everytime there was a sharp pain relieved some of the pain for me.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
They laid the baby on me and I couldn't see the gender because the baby was all curled up. I think the doctor believed I knew the gender and I waited for that big "it's a boy or it's a girl!" But I never got it! I yelled "what is it?!?!?" And my boyfriend yelled "A BOY!! Such a surreal moment.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
I would highly suggest a having someone in the room who has delivered naturally. One of my best friends acted as my doula and she had three at home births. This being my first, I did not know what to expect and having her there,encouraging means knowing she had done the same, was empowering.
Just know this:
You CAN make it through the times when you feel like you CAN'T.
