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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Not until I got to the hospital and the triage nurse told me I was 8 cm dilated!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The unfamiliarity of the situation. This was my first baby and I didn't know what to expect or how painful it was going to be.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Read positive birth stories and stayed moving. I worked 40 hours a week until my due date and I really think that helped keep my body going and prepared me for a great birth
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quick it was! This was my first baby and my first painful contraction started at 8:30 pm and I gave birth at 12:33am!
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You can do it!! Focus on your breathing. It's very important to relax during contractions and not tense up. Breathing is more helpful than you think!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing was the best strategy for me. I focused my breathe to my abdomen and visualized my breathe going there. I focused on my breathing with each contraction and it really helped me. I told myself "this contraction will not last forever and once it peaks, it will begin to ease off." It really helped
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my back with my knees bent
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing! He came out in one swift push and it was amazing!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it!! Focus on your breathing. It's very important to relax during contractions and not tense up. Breathing is more helpful than you think!
