Raye Robertson Talks About Her Birth

I went into labor unexpectedly early. In fact, I didn’t even think that I was in labor, I thought I had gas and decided to head to the hospital to confirm or deny this. I called Sabrina who in her supportive way calmed me and asked me to let her know what the Hospital had to say. I was fully effaced but not dilated yet, so went home to try and relax since birth was most likely many hours away.  I was with a friend and per Sabrina’s suggestion ran a bath to eases the contractions. After some hours I could not take the frequency and intensity of the pains so went back to the hospital where I could not wait to get an epidural (not in my birth plan). Sabrina met me there and reminded me that I had other options to help me relax besides the epidural. I took Stadol instead, (which in all honesty I wish I would have stayed off that too, it eased the pain a bit, but not worth the loopiness associated with it). Sabrina was so terrific to me as I experienced my contractions, which I mostly felt in my back. She held my hips which relieved the pain more than any drug. She also coached the family members in the room to do the same, as they rotated and fed me ice chips.

At one point I thought I could not take the pain any more and told Sabrina that I wanted an epidural. She reminded me of my original intent of a natural childbirth and reminded me that I was strong enough to do this without the medicine and she was right.

In the 11th hour the contractions worsened and I really did want an epidural, but alas the babies head was felt and I had to carry on drug free. Sabrina coached me through the pushing, which I am not sure if I would have done correctly or as quickly without her.   A little over an hour later my little miracle of a son was born.

Looking back I am thankful that I did not get the epidural.  The pushing part of labor was the hardest and if I were numb I am not sure if I would have felt what to do correctly.  I can understand why some women have to have c-sections if they push for a lengthy amount of time under the influence of a drug and are not able to get the baby out and it becomes medically necessary.

I am extremely thankful for Sabrina’s presence during my labor and delivery and her expertise in getting me ready for labor.  She spent time going over positions and breathing beforehand, helped me get my birth plan in order and was just a phone call away when I had questions about anything I was unsure of during my pregnancy. I felt more secure with her answers than with those of my Doctor.

Sincerely,

Raye RobertsonNew Mommie  - May 2010

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