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When did you realize you were really in labor?
At 4 o'clock in the afternoon while peeling potatoes for dinner. Consistent contractions that made me pause and wait while peeling.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Making myself remember that the pain was only temporary. While I was in active labor I felt like it was never going to end.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I ran, lifted weights, and tried to do 300 squats a day. If we decide to have another child I will definitely do the same.
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What surprised you about your birth?
My labor was extremely fast. Dilated from 4 to an 8 in under an hour and pushed for less than 20 minutes. I was so happy when I found out I was dilated to a 8 that I cried and got back on that birthing ball to get to a 10. It only took a few strong contractions and I was ready to push.
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Write down affirmations that will help you when going through active labor. I had note cards with little phrases reminding myself that the pain was temporary, remember to breathe, say no to an epidural, do not get pain meds they made you feel gross....etc.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Holding my husband's hand and him reminding me to breathe while rocking back and forth on a birthing ball and squatting on the floor.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
On my left side. We lost baby's heartbeat and when I would lay on the hospital bed on my left side we could find a strong beat.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Overwhelming waves of love that I want to experience over and over even it means going through hours and hours of labor. The pain of labor doesn't matter at all once my baby was put on my chest.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Write down affirmations that will help you when going through active labor. I had note cards with little phrases reminding myself that the pain was temporary, remember to breathe, say no to an epidural, do not get pain meds they made you feel gross....etc. I felt silly saying them out loud but they truly helped. And squats ladies! I know they helped me have a fast and easy labor. And honestly I was bare naked the whole time as well. Comfort. If that gown is uncomfortable, take it off. Who cares, right?
