I went for my 40 week check up with you on the Wednesday. You advised that I go for reflexology to bring baby along as I did not want interventions. I went for reflexology on the Friday, the weekend passed, I did alot of walking as you advised, with me having some signs of labour. On Monday morning at around 11AM I lost my mucus plug and felt the labour pains a bit stronger. I went for a reflexology session at 1 in the afternoon and I could feel during this session, labour was upon me. By the time I got home at 2, in the afternoon, my water broke as I got out my car. I decided I would labour at home, as long as I could, since I'd be walking around Genesis anyway while labouring. I went and had a bath, shaved and washed my hair. By the time I got out of the bath, I was in such pain that I could not get dressed. I leaned over the basin and swayed my way through contractions. Once I could catch my breath, you and my doula advised that I head to Genesis clinic, contractions were getting closer together and lasted over a minute each. We headed there, in peak hour traffic.

 

When we stopped in front of the hospital, I experienced my first bout of involuntary pushing. I knew the time was close. As the contraction subsided I ran into the room, there was a lady cleaning inside and I shouted: "I need pain meds or the epidural, I am in too much pain". You were called to the rooms to check me out, you announced that I was 8cm dilated and told me you didn't think I was going to make it to the bath. I begged for you to pour the bath so I could climb in. I sat on the toilet waiting for the water to be enough for me to sit in the warm water. Breathing my way calmly through contractions.

 

Eventually, I got into the bath while it was still being filled, on all fours, I could feel the salt crystals beneath my hands and knees. I then realised my pain had subsided and I could have a normal conversation with you. You were so supportive and reassuring. You poured warm water on my back and rubbed my lower back where there was pain. You gave me encouraging words and strength. I am forever grateful for your compassion towards me. You then told me it was time for my baby to be born.

 

I was so excited and nervous in the same breath. You coached me through, pushing with my contractions, it went brilliantly. Around 15 minutes of pushing my daughters head emerged, I stood up (ring of fire will make you do things). I remember yourself, my doula and another midwife catching my daughter as she entered this world. I wish I could have taken a photo of the sight of these 3 people holding onto my tiny human being while I stood waiting for the rest of her to emerge. It was truly a sight to behold and a most unique moment. You encouraged me through one last push. There she was finally in my arms.

 

The relief, the happiness, the awe and complete shock of my experience. Internally, I thanked my body for doing such an amazing job and keeping it together and doing what needed to be done even when my mind doubted my capability.

 

I remember doing the breast crawl with her, which she responded to within at least 20 minutes and I got to keep her on me while I delivered the placenta. Even through this you coached me compassionately. I was checked and allowed to get the necessary dressing to make myself presentable and move to my staying room.

 

I remember you asking me why I'm walking up and down stairs when I had given birth just 2 hours ago, I was in need of some tea after a short shower. I felt fit enough to walk around normally and see to myself and my newborn.

 

You came and weighed her and checked her out thoroughly. She was content and healthy.  She was dressed and stayed close to me.

 

Thank you for giving me your full attention and commitment when I needed you most. You were so caring and helpful through my entire birth. You are an amazing midwife and definite,ly in the right profession, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

 

I can now say I have a 2 year old. Healthy and happy!