Birth story - Esther and baby Arthur

I gave birth to my little Arthur on 14/9/18. Used all of the breathing techniques, light touch massage and visualisations at home for 24hrs of early labour before I established. Also used stress balls, spikey physio ball under foot, bath, shower, TENS machine and ball which worked well with the breathing.

Slightly slow progress on arrival at hospital 4cm, 2 hours later 5cm + broke waters, 2 hrs later 6cm with strong urge to push. Had epidural inserted but felt very happy with my decision and used the breathing throughout procedure to try and stop pushing/focus on sitting still!

Ended up in theatre having a forceps after pushing for 2 hours due to his slight malposition and my epidural had worn off somewhat. This was my ultimate “worst outcome” in pregnancy but going into it I felt in control, like my body had done what it needed to this point and I continued to visualise to alleviate any panic. I am a midwife of 10 years and gave birth in my workplace surrounded by love, and exceptional care.

We all have the power in us to birth the way we want and doing the right preparation definitely helped us to cope with the slight twists and turns of our boys’ arrival.