A positive induction: Cyrus’ birth story
My pregnancy was difficult. I had terrible morning sickness in the first trimester and was only able to eat/drink very little and barely able to keep it down. I lost 5kg in the first few months of pregnancy. There was also an abnormal measurement at our 12-week scan, and I had to have many follow up tests including a CVS, blood test, and two fetal cardiology scans. Thankfully all results came back negative. I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes at 28 weeks, which required monitoring my blood sugar four times a day. The diabetes was diet-controlled so I did not require medication.
I was induced at 40 weeks due to the gestational diabetes. I was induced via pessary at 9:30pm on a Sunday and delivered the baby at 10:30am the next morning. My body reacted extremely well to the pessary, and labour progressed extremely quickly - so much so that the midwife did not believe my contractions were so strong and close together. When she did an internal exam, I was already 6cm dilated only 9 hours after being induced. Once in active labour, I had gas and air, which I liked a lot - although it did make me very loopy for a few hours afterwards. I had a third-degree tear which was repaired by surgery after delivery.
Happy Parents. Happy Baby. helped us understand the induction process so we knew what to expect. The course also described in detail the different pain relief options that helped us make an informed choice.
I always thought that when I held my baby for the first time it would be like they show in movies... my heart full of love, sheer happiness, etc. Even in the days before he was born I expected to feel this way. However, I didn't feel this way at all when I first held him. I was distressed and tired from the induction and labour, and I didn't want to hold him at first. I was very apprehensive when the midwife gave him to me, unsure of how to hold him and support his tiny body. For me, I thought seeing my baby would be like meeting someone I've known my whole life, but it was very much like meeting a stranger.
However, this has totally changed as our connection developed over time and now I’m absolutely obsessed with him!
The practical tips we learned in the Happy Parents. Happy Baby. course were so helpful! From nappy changes, to breastfeeding, to infant CPR, we knew that we had the knowledge to take care of our new little human being.
Happy Parents. Happy Baby. gave us the knowledge and tools to confidently bring our baby into this world. The classes are structured in such a way that you feel you are covering all the major relevant topics that need to be considered before, during, and after delivery.
Top Tips
Take a lot of baby clothes to the hospital! You would not believe how quickly babies go through vests and onesies.
Always remember that the tough moments don't last forever. Things will get easier.
If you don't feel connected to your baby at first, don't worry. This doesn't make you a bad parent. Your connection with them will form over time, especially as your confidence grows.
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.
