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! 😉
Sam Choles
February 10, 2012
You can do it!
Here’s my story – hopefully this will help. And so will an epidural…might have that next time!
http://www.yourparenting.co.za/real-life-stories/our-easter-surprise
Natalie Gornall
February 10, 2012
Thanks Sis! I read your story a while back, was in tears then and again now! 🙂
de Mudder
February 10, 2012
I guess in the “horror” stories told about giving birth, what gets left out is that it is the most amazing, special time in one’s life which you two as parents, share. Moments which you never forget as long as you live. It transforms your life and purpose on earth. Women who miss out on this due to Caesar’s – whether planned or emergency, miss out on this memorable experience and their bonding with their baby’s father and the baby suffers, too. Being well prepared will help enormously. There are many supporting and rooting for you….
Natalie Gornall
February 10, 2012
There we go Mudder! Some more positives… 😉