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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I woke up at 4am with really intense contractions.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The pushing!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read a lot, one thing that I read said to keep your hands open and your jaw/neck/shoulders loose - this really helped me deal with contractions.
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What surprised you about your birth?
When I got to the hospital about 3 hours after I knew I was in labor I was already dilated to 8! My water didn't break so I labored at an 8 for 6 hours until my doctor recommended breaking it; baby R was here within an hour and a half!
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Do as much research as you can and bring anything you think might help you cope. I also think it is important to allow yourself pain meds if you need them during labor, forgive yourself if things don't go as you planned.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Swaying on a birthing ball and then moving my hips in a figure 8 motion while on my hands and knees when things got more intense.
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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?
It was amazing to me that all of the pain and pushing is suddenly over and forgotten about as soon as they put your baby on your chest, none of it mattered as soon as I held him.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Do as much research as you can and bring anything you think might help you cope. I also think it is important to allow yourself pain meds if you need them during labor, forgive yourself if things don't go as you planned.
