A positive vaginal labour: Alma’s birth story
I had a very easy pregnancy, by the book, and I loved being pregnant. HPHB classes helped me feel more prepared and confident in my birth plan. It also helped my partner feel more involved and laid the ground for great conversations between us about how to approach the event.
My birth was what you would call 'straightforward' (vaginal with no complication) although I feel that all first births are definitely a real shock to the system and an event you can never feel 100% prepared for. But thanks to HPHB I was really on top of all the options available in terms of pain relief, their risks and their benefits, and it helped my decision making in early labour as well as in the delivery room.
The moment I first saw my baby I felt profoundly lucky, relieved to see her alert and healthy and quite amused! Unfortunately, I didn't feel the incredible rush everyone talks about. My labour was 33 hours long, I was exhausted and probably quite high on the epidural and pitocin, which might be why.
The day following our return home was unsettling. We were not sure how much she needed to eat and we even thought we overfed her at some point! But apart from the feeding we were prepared when it came to our expectations regarding sleep, baby's cues and....the whole poop pantone...which matters a lot in those early days!
I would absolutely recommend HPHB. Will and Francesca are so knowledgeable and the team of experts at HPHB is impressive. Special shoutout to the kindness and absolute commitment of the entire team during lockdown. I so appreciated the support you provided to the community of expectant and new parents through the daily dose of happiness on Instagram. It was brilliant!
Top Tips
Get a doula for your birth if you can. Even with the best antenatal classes I think having another woman with you to help you remain calm and advocate for your needs and choices makes a huge difference and I certainly regret not having had one. Next time!
You can read lots more Positive Birth Stories here. We have positive birth stories from all types of births, including homebirths, water births, induction of labour, instrumental deliveries and Caesarean section births.
Download our free birth plan template and other resources for your pregnancy here.
Find out more about our antenatal and hypnobirthing classes in London, Essex and online and book your place here.
Access free hypnobirthing relaxations and videos to support you through your pregnancy on our Instagram TV page here.
Watch our free pregnancy and postnatal exercise classes here.
