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Reply to "Beginning the Baby Journey- Dr Suggested No C-Section?"

That's interesting about the epidural! I never heard anything about that during my care-- it was just up to me whether or not I wanted one (which I did). To reduce the risk of tearing my doula prepared warm compresses for my perineum during the pushing stage (to help the tissue stretch). I do think having a doula was integral to helping me feel comfortable attempting a vaginal delivery. She was not only well-versed in what happens in a "normal" labor and delivery, but she also knew my whole story and could help make sure that everyone was keeping that in mind in making decisions about my care. 

Also, I'm sure this would be a controversial choice, but the doctors had decided ahead of time that if the need for an episiotomy arose (and I was at a hospital with very low episiotomy rates overall), they would make the incision horizontally instead of vertically, like it normally is. They explained that although this isn't usually the preferred method because it has a longer/more difficult recovery, they wanted to try to direct any major tearing away from my rectum. Luckily, I didn't need one. I did have a second degree tear, so it was confined to my vagina and has healed well. 

As for my labor, I ended up being induced at 40w4d because the amniotic fluid was low. Since my body was clearly not ready to be in labor, it took about 48 hours until I was ready to push. I pushed for 3.5 hours. It was absolutely exhausting, but absolutely worth it! 

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