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When did you realize you were really in labor?
About two hours before delivery! I had Braxton Hicks which started about 4 hours beforehand and then stopped once I laid down. I didn't have any back pain or other indicators so I really wasn't sure even though this is my third child. Each one has been different!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The concern from my OB and family about some of the less conventional choices.
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proof0901
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Hired a doula, read the Mama Natural playbook and lots of prayers for a safe, natural, painfree birth!
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What surprised you about your birth?
It was much less painful than expected AND it happened so fast that we didn't make it to the hospital (45 minutes away)! I delivered in my husband's truck without staff right as he pulled up to the ER! It was insane but baby and I were healthy, the pain was minimal and I still got my drug and intervention-free birth with a delayed cord clamping :)!
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I knew my body could do it and yours can too!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing to a silent mantra, laying down, taking magnesium (Natural Calm) and staying hydrated
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Slightly sitting up (in the back seat of a pickup)!
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Surreal, total bliss despite a chaotic rushed arrival
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
I had two typical births with epidurals and all the interventions. I really wish I would've pushed for natural births then because I was so much more aware, present and confident this time. I knew my body could do it and yours can too!
