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When did you realize you were really in labor?
Halfway through a moleben (prayer service) our bishop Vladyka Jonah was celebrating for me. It was full of prayers that I would birth soon, especially since I was 41 weeks. I guess it worked!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
When my body started pushing without my help I remember wishing I had a cesarean. Totally worth it!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
As a doula myself I didn't think I needed help, but my choice of Doula (Lindsey Ward) and midwife (Claudia Booker) made all the difference.
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What surprised you about your birth?
It was so fast-- just 6 hours from 'wow this is labor', to 'Welcome Susan!'
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It was so fast-- just 6 hours from 'wow this is labor', to 'Welcome Susan!'
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Yelling and hollering and swearing! I was roaring by the end. Hope the neighbors weren't too worried.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Side lying! It's overlooked by many people since it is lying down, but it worked well for me.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Amazing rush. I did it, I really did, and here was my baby!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Get a good care provider, a good doula, and rock that birth! You can do it!!
