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When did you realize you were really in labor?
I had Braxton Hicks for months so was worried i wouldn’t know right away that I was actually in labor, but I woke up at 1 AM with period like cramps along with the tightening so just KNEW. They were definitely different than Braxton Hicks!
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What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The mental part of “choosing” to relax though each contraction over and over!
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What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
I read Ina May Gaskin's book which gave me confidence that I could do this! I also practiced hypnobabies self hypnosis. Although in labor I didn’t fully use the self hypnosis techniques, the study helped remind me to relax and stay loose through each contraction.
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What surprised you about your birth?
The primal noise that happens uncontrollably while in the pushing stage! What is that about!?
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You CAN do it!!! It’s really mental so prepare ahead of time so you can stay focused on your goal of going natural. It’s worth it to keep going natural! You will feel so proud and empowered.
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What pain relief strategies worked best?
Staying calm and relaxing through each contraction! I was so relaxed that even when contractions were 2 mins apart, I was falling asleep in between because i was so relaxed.
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What position did you end up delivering in?
Laying on the hospital bed. I had been squatting at the beginning of the pushing stage but my legs got so weak and tired so laying on the bed allowed me to focus all my energy on pushing.
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How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
Unbelievable!! I was so happy and euphoric, I could not believe how beautiful and perfect she was! I kept telling her “we did it!!”
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What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
You CAN do it!!! It’s really mental so prepare ahead of time so you can stay focused on your goal of going natural. Also, the point where it becomes the most intense and seemingly unbearable often means you are likely in transition and you are almost done! It’s worth it to keep going natural! You will feel so proud and empowered.
