Bryce’s VBAC Birth Center Birth

My first birth ended up being a very traumatic c-section. When it came time to decide to have another baby we decided we wanted to do things completely different. We chose an out of hospital birth and a doula due to lack of support from the local hospitals. When I interviewed Alison, I knew without a doubt that she was the perfect person to help aide me for my redemptive VBAC. When it was go time and I went into labor, Alison came to my house and helped me cope through contractions. She helped me stay calm and make an informed decision of when to go to the birth center. When I arrived at the birth center, I was already 5 cm! Alison got to work supporting me as it got more intense. When my midwife checked me a couple hours later I was 7 cm. I exploded into tears. I looked at everyone and said “I’m doing it! I’m really doing it.” At this point, I was also needing support from my husband and forever grateful for him never leaving my side and helping me. It started to get really intense and within a couple hours I had definitely transitioned. My midwives checked again and I was 9.5 cm. I started to doubt that I could do it. I asked to go to the hospital. I asked for the epidural. Anything to help with the pain. Everyone encouraged and supported me, especially my husband and Alison. The only person who doubted me, was me. When it came time to push, I was empowered by everyone supporting me and after 2.5 hours of pushing, my daughter was in my arms. It was the most insane experience of my life. I am forever indebted to my husband, my doula, Alison, and my amazing midwife team for believing in me, supporting me and helping me have the birth I DESERVED.