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When did you realize you were really in labor?
When I saw the bloody show. It was my 4th baby and that is what I watch for to know.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I had all 4 of my kids naturally, but this time baby wasn't in the perfect position and it was especially painful.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I saw a chiropractor who was knowledgeable and skilled in the Webster method and prenatal yoga.
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What surprised you about your birth?
My baby wouldn't descend down past my pubic bone due to her chin being up instead of tucked in to her chest. This caused my contractions to be more spaced apart and very painful and unproductive. I have never in my life felt so powerless in my own body. When I pushed it didn't feel good and all I had was a burning stabbing pain. My midwife had me do some things to try to change baby's position, but nothing helped. In my mind I was facing a cesarean. All I could think was how?! As a 4th time mom how was I facing this? My doula started praying for baby to move and then suddenly she did move and I could push productively! In the past I had an almost 4th degree tear from my 2nd birth and he was a 10 lb baby. This time was also a 10 lb baby and I had ZERO tearing! It was a real blessing after that painful 25 hr labor.
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Expect the unexpected. Every birth can be so different!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Getting into the birthing tub helped dull the pain
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Floating on my back with my knees bent and legs dangling down.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Sweet relief that it was all over and she and I were both safe
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Expect the unexpected. Every birth can be so different!
