A Birth Story: Rosemary June

I am writing this post from my hospital bed as my sweet baby girl naps beside me in her bassinet. We were supposed to be home by now, but I was readmitted to the hospital and diagnosed with postpartum preeclampsia. It's a rare condition that occurs when a woman has high blood pressure soon after childbirth. If left untreated, postpartum preeclampsia can result in seizures and other serious complications. I am lucky I listened to my mother and went to the Emergency Room when I didn't feel well. The doctors say my condition is improving and I might be able to go home tomorrow.

The night before our baby girl was born, I co-slept with Henry because I wanted to cuddle him as my baby one last time. Early the next day, I kissed my "only child" goodbye and headed to the hospital. I was ten days overdue and both my midwife and doctor agreed it was time for me to meet my baby. After months of research and second opinions, I was told I was a good VBAC candidate. I was nervous, but grateful for supportive caregivers who were willing to give me the opportunity to try.

As crazy as it sounds, I thought the early stages of labour were fun! My doula walked around the hospital halls with me and Mike kept me smiling with funny stories and bad jokes. Portable monitors were strapped to my very large belly and I found the constant stream of my baby's heartbeat very comforting. When the intensity of my surges increased, I breathed through them. Twelve hours later, I cried when they checked me and I hadn't made any progress. I feared my dream of having a successful VBAC was slipping away.

My birth plan didn't include an epidural, but my midwife believed it the compassionate choice because it would help me relax and go to full dilation. The "walking epidural" allowed me to move around. I bounced on the birthing ball and my nurse instructed me to slow dance with my husband to allow gravity to bring the baby down. The medication also allowed me to lie down and meditate to my hypnobirthing c.d's. Later, pianist Ludovico Einaudi played on the Ipod as Mike massaged my feet and read my hypnobirthing affirmations aloud. My birth experience became peaceful.

When I heard the doctor say it was time to push, I knew I was going to get my VBAC. I remember squeezing Mike's hand and he told me I was doing a really good job. My birthing suite was buzzing with excitement and I loved the anticipation. My midwife prepared the warming station for the baby and I listened to my nurse's gentle instructions. Less than an hour later, Rosemary June was born.The doctor handed all ten pounds three ounces of her right to me for skin to skin. It was a euphoric moment.

Everyone in the room was crying, laughing and hugging. My nurse told me I was the talk of the maternity ward and I felt empowered. I did it!

Introducing Miss Rosie June...

I am so in love and I can't believe she's mine to take home.