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When did you realize you were really in labor?
My water broke on a Wednesday morning, finally by Thursday night I began to experience a few contractions. After waiting over 30 hours for labor to start I figured we were finally on our way!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
Staying in the game mentally. I began to have self doubt and had to make the decision that no matter what it took I was getting through my labor and birth. Coming face to face with my fear was very challenging.
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read a lot of natural birth books, watched a lot of natural birth videos and looked at blogs. I also prayed and mentally prepared for labor. Talking about the birth with my husband and preparing together was also really great.
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What surprised you about your birth?
I was only in labor 6 1/2 hours total and pushed for 30 minutes. I was prepared for a long labor so this really surprised me. Overall things were much easier than I had expected.
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Talking about the birth with my husband and preparing together was also really great. It's cliche but holding my husbands hand was very comforting.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
I worked really hard at staying realaxed and loose during contractions. It's cliche but holding my husbands hand was very comforting.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
I ended sitting up against our headboard. It's not what I invisioned but it worked well.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Relief and awe! I just couldn't believe she was finally here and actual ours.
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Read, research and have faith that no matter what you can do it. Be 100% confident about your birth plan and those involved with your birth. And remember all the hard work is about to pay off in an amazing way.
