the birth

23 weeks;  6 December 2011

Every mom-to-be sets out on a mission to have a natural birth, as if there are other options!! 😉  I have to tell you, things happen for a reason.  At my temp job I was privileged to meet a wonderful Women by the name of Avis;  a Sister, a Midwife, a Doula.  Those who know me well know that when the day came I was sure as hell NOT pushing it out!  It scares the living daylights out of me!  Honest to God.  There is not a day that goes by where I don’t think about it and fear it!

Avis, passionate beyond words about women, birthing and babies!   If it were not for meeting her, I would still be hell-bent! For sure!  She has the most incredible passion and love for her work.  And it can only be this passion that swayed my thinking.  Me, yes, me.  Terribly stubborn, me.  I am so sad she will not be here for the birth of our little one, yet, she has made her mark; she made me realise what is best for Mom and Baby and that natural birth is just that, natural.  Yes, PAIN-FULL… but there is a prize!

32 weeks; 10 February 2012

I am so saddened.

There is a horrible negativity around natural birth.  I understand. All it is is Fear.  Fear of the unknown.  I have it.

Having moved to the Western Cape a year ago, I now find myself in the gorgeous town of Somerset West.  I have realised that this is possibly the BEST place for ME to be having a child.  There is support.  Much needed emotional support.  Although I don’t have family here, I have a network – clinics, nurses, midwifes, and doula’s who are all so willing to help. For nothing too!  I have a Gynae who is honest.  And I believe it. 

The fear is subsiding.  And I am moving toward a positive birthing experience.  The power of positive thinking.  I am in control.  Words I have been told, words I believe.  I make it my birthing experience, not yours.  

As this life grows inside me, I realise more and more that my role as a mother is to do what is best for my baby first, and then me.  I was made a woman, I was made to carry a child (and blessed to be able to do so), my body preparing for your arrival, guiding me on the right path.  For you.  I come equipped.  A powerful mind and a body in tune.  And Strength. 

I shall not give in.

Except for an Epidural! 😉