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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I woke up with a strong contraction at 3:00 am. I had been having pre labor contractions for several weeks so I didn't know I was really in labor. The contractions kept coming but not very regularly. Then four hours later I lost my mucus plug and I knew for sure!!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
It was the vulnerability and just having to completely let labor take its course.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I took the Bradley method child birth classes with my husband. They were great and really helped us know what to expect. Also we watched the documentary, "The Business of Being Born" which really normalized birth, especially home births, and gave me extra confidence that my body totally knew what to do.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I had been in labor for about 13 hours and I threw up a couple times. I had not been examined yet, but my mom and midwife didn't think I was in transition yet because I was very quiet and they didn't think I was showing the signs. I started feeling lots of pressure so my midwife checked me and I was 9 cm dilated. This was a huge encouragement and just the boost I needed to keep going.
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Take child birth classes, have a doula (my mom was mine) and read!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I had back labor so my husband rolled a ball across my back to ease the pain. Also I really just tried to relax and let each contractions take its course.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I was squatting in the birthing tub
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It felt indescribable!! I couldn't believe he was actually mine and I was finally holding him!! The happiest moment of my life!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Take child birth classes, have a doula (my mom was mine) and read!
