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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was in labor when I went to a chocolate making class with my 10 year old daughter and husband and I couldn't exactly pay attention and had to just watch rather than participate. Then we went on to a st. Patties day block party and it was hard to just walk, the contractions kept coming.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Sticking with it when it got really tuff toward the end.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I took Bradley method classes and kept reading birth stories. Also I would review the stages of birth over and over.
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What surprised you about your birth?
It was much longer than my first and I could handle it pretty well up until the last few hours, it was then that I started to not believe in myself until my husband stepped in.
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Research as much as possible and it is OK if your plans stray from your original plan.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I used the labor tub, and my husband did counter pressure on my back and hips. Breathing techniques helped as well.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Classic position
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding my daughter felt amazing and surreal. I couldn't believe I could fit that baby in me.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Research as much as possible and it is OK if your plans stray from your original plan.
