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When did you realize you were really in labor?
2.5 hours before birth. I had been having prodromal labor for over a week so on the final day, it was kind of a "wait and see" to find out if the contractions were going to stick and keep up. When they hit, they hit hard!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
I've loved going natural for all my live births, but the most difficult part is always getting through the pushing stage. Totally worth it though.
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IMG_1916
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Study the Bradley Method
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What surprised you about your birth?
We've had three small-average babies in prior births. I'm a small woman and have never had any complications or major tears. But this baby was 10 lbs and came quickly. Hello stitches.
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Stay mentally calm and take each contraction one at a time.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Stay mentally calm and take each contraction one at a time.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Side lying
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
So relieving and wonderful
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You can do it! Get a good CNM or proven-natural-friendly OB, learn everything you can about the birth process, and go for it!! After delivering stillborn twins with an epidural, and feeling the difference physically and the inability to control or feel my own body, I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have natural births. I would choose it every time, hands down!!
