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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was really in labor at midnight the night before. I stated having contractions and then my water broke. My husband was too asleep to believe me when I said I was in labor!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
My baby was big! His shoulders got stuck a bit and I had to stand while my midwife reached in and adjusted him. So intense!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Relaxation techniques with my husband. He's the only reason I was able to breathe.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How much anxiety I had. I guess I was thinking about my first child's birth and worrying about how different it would be. I sort of knew what was coming and it was a lot harder!
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Just know that your experience will be unlike anyone else's. And it can be beautiful and amazing even if it doesn't go as planned. Find your comfort place and go there.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Sitting on the toilet! Also having my husband behind me helping me relax and my mom and mother in law massage my legs.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Squatting on a birthing stool.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
I felt intense relief! At the end of labor I felt like he would never come out and that the contractions would last forever. But he came and I couldn't wait to cuddle him.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Just know that your experience will be unlike anyone else's. And it can be beautiful and amazing even if it doesn't go as planned. Find your comfort place and go there.
