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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Contractions started about 1am but were about an hour apart. By 3am they were about 10 minutes apart. My water did not break on its own though so we finally went to the hospital at 9am when the contractions were 5 minutes apart.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Getting through the last 30-45 minutes of hard labor! I did ask for some fentenol and was given half the maximum dosage but my son was born about 20 minutes later so it probably didn't have time to really take effect.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Just remembering last time and that labor does not last forever! Also, preparing a detailed daily schedule covering my son and the cats since we don't have family living near us and I (obviously) had no idea when we would need a sitter for my son or who would be available.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was much more alert this time and recognized right away that it was a boy! Last time I was pretty dehydrated and out of it. I was also alert enough to talk with the midwife and look at the placenta.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Breathing through the contractions
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Propped up on a hospital bed. This time I had my feet on the bed though vs people holding my legs last time.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Pretty amazing. They are beautiful and SO tiny!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it!!!
