Let’s hear some positive birth stories!

Sometimes we underestimate the power of words and how much of an impact they can have, particularly where pregnancy is concerned.  Even with the best intentions it seems that the tales of labour and birth which are passed around tend to focus on those with perceived negative aspects, such as long labours or tears.  This can be fear provoking for expectant mums and they may lose confidence in themselves.  We believe in providing accurate and balanced information, this means discussing all aspects of birth in detail and also including the many positive births we have been witness to. 

We thought we'd share some excerpts from some of our Bambino Club graduates' birth stories. These little snippets highlight the amazing journey that is birth; each one is unique, they didn't all go to plan, but they all had an overall positive experience and show what an empowering experience it can be!

‘I didn't know what to expect with my first birth, but it was such a positive experience and not at all like I had been told it would be!  The main thing I did throughout my pregnancy was practice breathing techniques…this got me through every contraction and kept me as calm as possible.’   

‘It wasn't long until I got into the pool, and listening to my body (and midwife!) had my son in the water…it’s just incredible what our bodies are capable of!’

‘My second baby was born via VBAC, my waters broke then I went from 2cm to fully dilated in an hour and she was born 10 minutes later!...such a lovely experience…’

‘I was full of fear and how I would cope…I took part in lots of classes to help with my breathing techniques.  My waters broke at home then 24 hours later I went into hospital…the environment was very relaxing and I was excited to meet my little baby.  

…I had to be put on the hormone drip with an epidural but everything kept me calm and relaxed and even though it wasn't the birth I had planned, I felt reassured throughout and comforted by the midwives and doctors.’

‘Although the end part was not what I would have wanted in an ideal birth plan, I found my birth to be a thoroughly positive experience.’

‘I remember labouring quite peacefully for the next 5 hours or so in the pool…’

‘The midwives and my partner were fantastic in supporting me and suggesting different positions to try which really helped.’

‘My little girl was delivered with the help of forceps and once she was in my arms I was overcome with love.  If I can advise one thing it would be not to be scared if you have to adapt your birth plan…if you need to be induced or you have an epidural that’s ok and you can still have a good birth experience.’

‘I really enjoyed using the pool and it helped a lot… I told my midwife I didn’t want an epidural, I wanted to have my baby!’

‘I couldn't help but push along; the pressure was so strong… I could feel her moving down and myself stretch and open…finally my beautiful little girl was born in the pool…I can’t believe I did it!’

‘I ended up having a c section, not something I would have chosen, but was surrounded by the most amazing and supportive team of medical staff.  The moment I heard the words ‘happy birthday mate’...every moment that wasn’t planned was worth it.’

‘I don’t think I have ever felt more loved, or had as many people as proud of me as they were that day…and in turn I felt special and proud of myself.’          

                                                                                                         Thank you so much to all of our amazing Bambino Club graduates who have taken the time to share their stories - we absolutely love to hear them.  You’re all amazing!!

If you’re now itching to hear some more lovely birth stories then head to ‘'Tell me a good birth story' - it’s a fantastic site I was advised to take a look at a few years ago.  I have since suggested many women and partners dip in and read a few accounts.  It has many fantastic, honest birth stories to remind us how wonderful and empowering (and yes tiring too!) birth can be.  

So let's remember to provide balanced information, to keep in mind that every pregnancy and birth is unique and different, and to empower our pregnant friends, colleagues and family members with positive birth stories.