Baby Thompson’s Birth
Josi was with me for my 3rd baby. I went into my previous two births with high expectations and a desire to go natural each time. I ended up with multiple interventions and epidurals with both. This time around, I didn’t have any expectations other than a healthy baby and mom. After my water broke, Josi was at the hospital when I arrived with snacks and my favorite hydration drink in hand! Once I was admitted, she came into my room and set up a beautiful and calming birth space. She turned the lights down and put twinkle lights and birth affirmations all over the walls. During early labor, she talked and joked with my husband and me. Due to the hospital’s visitor policy, I could only have three people in the room with me at a time. She was willing to switch in and out with my best friend so everyone could be there for me at different times. Once active labor began, she tried many different techniques for pain management such as rolling on a birthing ball, holding combs during contractions and using a rebozo. Counter pressure plus her two TENS machines were what was most helpful to me. She and my husband took turns with counter pressure. I didn’t talk much through active labor, but she was right there the whole time encouraging me, telling me I could do it and that she was proud of me. When pushing came, she graciously bowed out so my best friend could be in the room when my son was born. I know it made her a little sad, but I appreciated her sacrifice so much! After my son was born, she stayed and made sure I was comfortably in my postpartum room and that I had dinner, even though it was near midnight. Thanks to her and her expertise, I was able to have my first intervention/epidural free birth experience! She gave me confidence in myself and my body’s ability to birth! She was also a great relief to my husband whenever he needed a break. I’m so glad she was with me during my birth. I don’t know if I could have done it without her. I would highly recommend her to all those looking for support during their birth!
