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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I realized I was in labor after having mild contractions throughout the day. I finally lost a small portion of my mucous plug, which is how my first labor started. I knew things were picking up when it happened, and sure enough, contractions started becoming more frequent and intense. I downloaded a contraction app on my phone and started keeping track.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging thing about going natural was managing the pain, especially while pushing. I was determined to have a natural birth with my first born, but after 30 hours of labor, and laboring in a hospital, I was talked into having an epidural. I did not think the epidural was working by the time I pushed; after birthing naturally this time around, I told my husband that the epidural with my first did, in fact, NOT wear off. Pushing was much more painful than I thought it would be, but the natural birth was so much more rewarding and empowering for me.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Yoga, staying active chasing around my toddler, and using the squatty potty (seriously!) helped me prepare for childbirth this time around. My midwives were amazed at how low baby's head was during the last few visits! Keeping my body active and in the right positions throughout the whole pregnancy helped greatly in the long run. Having a great support team in place for delivery helped as well. I could not have done it without my husband and doula!
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was surprised that laying on my side helped speed labor and contractions up. My midwives and doula encouraged me to stand up (we were all thinking gravity would help start contractions after they would slow down) and labor that way. What really got things going though was laying down!
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Surround yourself with people that not only support and encourage you, but know what they are doing!
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
We used the birthing tub, essential oils, acupressure, and counter pressure on my hips to help manage pain.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended up delivering sitting on the bed with my husband behind me for support.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Holding that warm, squishy body is so surreal. I was in disbelief that I was actually able to have the delivery I wanted and the reward was finally holding my little girl. Words cannot describe the feeling of holding your baby for the first time. It is the most wonderful reward for labor in the world.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Surround yourself with people that not only support and encourage you, but know what they are doing! My doula and my husband were my greatest assets. Prepare your body and your mind for going natural; read birth stories and believe your body is made to do this. God has designed our bodies to do this because we are beautifully and wonderfully made.
