Inspiration
birth stories | birth announcements
Birth Stories
Maria Allen
Hi Leslie!
We welcomed Maria Allen on July 18th. She is a healthy, happy and beautiful baby! Labor was relatively short (truly painful labor was under 3 hrs) and in the middle of all that pain I was able to remember the breathing and coping techniques you'd taught us. I especially used the one that imitates a horse's whinny. I even envisioned myself in class! One thing I tried and worked pretty well (and I don't know if I learned it from you or read it somewhere or made it up myself . . .) was to time the contractions. So, I figured my contractions were about 25 seconds long, so as I was going thru them I started counting backwards, the most painful part was the first 15 seconds. Once I reached 10 I felt like it was almost going to pass. I should also credit my midwife (Kathryn from MCV) and my husband and mom for providing constant support and coaching. I found that for me, being concentrated and breathing thru the contractions while standing up and leaning on the bed was the most comfortable position. I had the option of using the whirlpool, medicine ball, and the squat bar, but frankly the thought of walking or changing positions didn't seem like an option. I was in too much pain and I just wanted to stay focused on getting thru things. It has been amazing going thru labor and delivery again. Amidst all the pain I enjoyed every minute of it. This was my first childbirth without an epidural or spinal block, and must say it was the most emotional and exciting of all.
It has also been exciting to bring her home to her siblings, Julia (4) and Santiago (2.5). Although they were very emotional the first couple of days, they have shown nothing but love to their little sister. They love to hold her and kiss her and are always excited to help out, even if it's just by throwing her dirty diapers in the trash!
Sorry, for the long email, but I did want to thank you for all you taught me. Although I only got to attend one yoga session (due to my SI joint pain), it was extremely helpful in helping get thru it all!
Namaste,
Rosa.