Another beautiful birth! I know I say it all the time, but I really do have the best job in the world. Jesica contacted me about doula support for the birth of her second baby girl. Her first birth ended in a cesarean, and she was really hoping to have a VBAC this time. I LOVE supporting VBAC moms. Being a VBAC mom myself I know what that desire to have a vaginal birth feels like, and I know it can feel like an uphill battle. Shortly after our first visit I got a text from Jesica around 10am saying she thought she was possibly in early labor. I told Jesica to rest if she could, and that I would have my phone near by if she needed me. Jesica was just shy of 38 weeks, so I thought it could just be some warm up contractions. It had been a few hours since I had heard from Jesica, but I decided to take a nap just in case. Around 3:00 I got a call from Adam, asking me to join him and Jesica at their home. When I arrived I watched Jesica through a contraction. I could tell she was definitely in active labor. I applied counter pressure through her next contraction, and she said that felt SOOO much better! We moved into the bathroom and Jesica said she was feeling a lot of pressure. I suggested maybe it was time to start thinking about packing up and slowly making our way out the door. Jesica said ok, but after a couple more contractions she said it was time to go NOW! We all moved quickly to the car, and had a short drive to the hospital. I sent Adam in ahead of us to let the staff know we were coming. Jesica and I walked slowly from the parking lot making our way inside. Stopping to work through each contraction together. As soon as we made it into L&D we were put in a room. Jesica had the urge to push about 10 minutes after we arrived at the hospital. She felt best standing and squatting with each urge to bear down. I held on to Jesica and supported her through each squat (I am so thankful my coach makes me squat so much at the gym!), and quietly reminded her to keep following her body...it knew what to do. Her midwives were laying on the floor coaching her through crowning. They never once asked Jesica to move for their comfort, and I LOVED them for that! They asked Jesica to breath through her next couple of contractions to allow her body time to stretch and open. This was really hard for her with an overwhelming urge to bear down. As soon as the midwives gave the ok to push again; baby Olivia joined us earth side. She was immediately lifted up and placed in her mothers arms. I don't think I've ever seen a dad with a bigger smile on his face! Adam looked like the proudest dad and husband.
I know I was a proud doula! Seeing a mother meet her baby for the first time, doing it her way, and being supported by an amazing team is my dream come true. Jesica birthed her baby with strength, love, beauty, and determination. You cannot understand the power of a birthing woman until you hold her in your arms and feel it. It's raw power. Physical strength, emotional strength, and spiritual strength. I hope Jesica feels as strong as she is.
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