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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I was also fortunate to have dilated to 4cm before my "contractions" really began. I was convinced I was not in labor as it "did not hurt enough." I had a textbook case of labor starting (complete with losing my mucus plug 4 days before, and my bloody show the evening before). At 4:15 am, I became a bit "campy," by 8 am I ate a nice protein rich breakfast and bounced on the labor ball in a circular motion. We also diffused Clary Sage. By 11:00 I called my husband home from work, my contractions were about 3-4 minutes apart but still not very painful as we went to the hospital.
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
They broke my water, about 20 minutes later I went from 7-10 cm. It was so fast I barely had time to adjust my breathing. The pace really took me by surprise, as I'm a first time mom.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
Line up proper support for the birthing room. We had a family member (who is a L+D nurse) present and she was critical in keeping the environment calm, massaging the correct pressure points/counter pressure and helping my husband help me. I also had my music playlist with affirmations ready (although I only listened to 2). After my essential oils have helped healing. Also, don't underestimate the power of oxygenating your system. The breathing really does help relax your system.
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What surprised you about your birth?
How fast it can progress and how quiet I wanted the room to be. The shower was also a HUGE help. The warm water was so relaxing.
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It is possible. Get support.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Warm Shower
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Squatting Bar
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
We didn't know the gender, so the surprise was amazing!
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
It is possible. Get support.
