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When did you realize you were really in labor?
It was on my due date! I was at dinner feeling what I thought was cramping. Looking back it was early labor!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
TRANSITION! Thank goodness my husband and I educated ourselves. It was the biggest and most helpful tool. I was in so much pain and said to my husband I don’t think I can do it anymore, and he knew my plan. He simply looked at me and said you can do this. You are so much stronger than the pain.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Education! Of course my husband and I completed the mama natural course, but I also read books and attended free workshops. I learned as much as I could about the process so that I wouldn’t be scared or overwhelmed. Knowledge is my power. Knowing what’s going to happen and when and to stay calm, was so helpful.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How truly amazing the body is. I know we learned about this and I have so many role models that gave birth naturally that told me this, but it really becomes real when your body does it!
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It seems crazy to say, but as soon as my baby was out and in my arms I forgot about all the pain.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing was huge! My husband had to talk me through it and remind me to take big large breathes before the contractions overwhelmed me. Moving into different potions was also so helpful. Because I knew so many different potions, I was able to labor at home until I was 8cm dilated.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Unreal! My husband and I created this beautiful baby. My body carried him and pushed him out. And seeing his face for the first time was magical. It seems crazy to say, but as soon as my baby was out and in my arms I forgot about all the pain. It’s like it instantly vanished.
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What did you name your baby, and why?
Jayden Elias. We liked the name Jayden and it means thankful (as we are so thankful for him) and Elias after my husband and father in law.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
If you are serious about the process, educate yourself. The biggest and most helpful thing is knowing about the process. That way you will be prepared and there’s less to be worried or scared about.
Second, you have to make sure you LOVE everyone on YOUR support team!! My husband did amazing! (Actually way better than I thought he would! 😂) I changed my provider half way through my pregnancy from an OB to a group of midwives because it was not a good fit for me. I was actually scared to switch, but looking back I’m so glad I did! And I tell people now, everything that happens during your pregnancy is your choice! If your not happy, change it! And lastly, we hired a doula, but she unfortunately got COVID the day I went into labor. She was not able to attend the birth, but was still amazingly supportive. And we are so thankful we hired one, but mamas it’s also important to remember that your birth plan might not go the way you want it to go. And that is OKAY! Because in the end, you get your beautiful bundle of joy. 💗💙
