When megan met james
I was scheduled for induced labor at Canberra Hospital due to gestational diabetes. After a sweep and stretch, I was sent home.
I spent the afternoon bouncing on my birthing ball and walking.
Labor started the next day, (December 5), with contractions lasting two days. With little sleep, I focused on contractions.
When they became irregular, I went to QBN Hospital for help and received painkillers and a sleeping tablet. Was sent home to have a nap and rest from contraction.
A few hours later, I woke to the news that my rabbit had passed away; my contractions intensified. My sister and brother helped bury him while I prepared for the hospital.
At Canberra Hospital, I received painkillers and a sleeping tablet before my water broke.
After a few hours' sleep, I entered full active labor. Using a birthing comb helped me focus on contractions. I felt pressure and the urge to go to the bathroom, but it was my son coming.
The nurse confirmed it was time to push, and without epidural, just a tiny bit of gas, my son was born.
The moment he was out, a light above me turned on, which I believe was my rabbit Theodore looking over me.
The moment James was on my chest I felt so much happiness and love!
If you could, would you do anything differently?
If I could do anything differently I would do a water birth
What did your partner do that really helped during labour/birth?
My partner kept me focused, hydrated, and reminded me of my strength, and let me know how proud he is of me.
What advice/honest truth would give a mama-to-be about birth?
Focus on yourself and your contractions, and consider using a birthing comb - it was incredibly helpful for me!