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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I suspected all day, but contractions were irregular all morning. About 2:30 pm, I lay down to rest and couldn't sleep through contractions, and I knew it was really labor.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Transition
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Reading up on natural childbirth and normal labor, and avoiding stories where things went wrong.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How quickly I went from 5 cm to having a baby in my arms. It was about 30 minutes!
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You can do it! Preparation is necessary. Read, avoid negativity, make sure your provider is supportive, and have an advocate with you who knows your wishes.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Movement: walking and swaying.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Hands and knees
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Surreal!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! Preparation is necessary. Read, avoid negativity, make sure your provider is supportive, and have an advocate with you who knows your wishes.
