A positive first labour: Rozie’s birth story
My pregnancy was quite enjoyable. I had been told stories about how hard it was and my doctor was worried about how pregnancy would affect my asthma. Contrary to this I was completely well, ate well and did daily exercise. Towards the end of my pregnancy I still had a good amount of energy and HPHB helped me think about how to put it into good use i.e. food prepping, and generally being organised.
My birth was long and hard, however I am really grateful to HPHB especially with regards to drafting my birthing plan. I was far more realistic with my planning than I would have been and ended up writing 3 different scenarios and options. In the end I gave birth by my 3rd option but I was glad that I had the time to mentally and physically prepare for this which I wouldn't have had I not attended the course.
The first moment I saw Rozie I was exhausted, but I was relieved and happy when I saw her.
When I finally made it home from hospital with my baby, that first week was really hard. I actually thought I would die from tiredness but I laugh now because clearly it doesn't kill.
Becoming a parent has been difficult and challenging but saying that, it’s the most joyful and fulfilling thing I've ever done.
HPHB was instrumental in the early days of my journey as it really helped me with understanding feeding and baby’s growth. Learning to change nappies and what to look out for, especially with a baby girl was definitely helpful otherwise I would have worried about things that I didn't need to.
I have recommended HPHB to all my expecting friends and will continue to. I learnt a lot from the course and believe others will.
Finally I have made such lovely friends from this course - I attended a different antenatal course as well but made none from the other.
Having friends with babies close in age is lovely and that alone is a reason to attend this course, as you will need friends!
Top Tips
Attend the HPHB course!
Be realistic with your birthing plan and consider all circumstances.
Have support for when you get home.
And don't be hard on yourself, have lots of rest where you can!
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.
