Your experience sounds similar to mine, however I think that the midwives and ob who evenutally delivered Lily were a lot more caring.

But I too had no idea of what to expect. My hubby had never held a newborn before and although I had, it was 10 years previous!

I am now pregnant with number 2 and going to be having her at the same hospital. I am going to be fully informed about my choices though and make sure that hubby and bestie know exactly what I want – I just remember being extremely out of it at Lily’s birth.

I am going through the midwife clinic, as I respect their decisions and know the focus of their care is on me AND the baby.

Megan

That’s wonderful to hear you stood your ground and didn’t let the doctors takeover. Sounds like you listened to your body and inner voice just keep it up. A good way of keeping faith of your feelings is gathering information to make an informed decision which is obviously what you are doing.

For me personally now given the opportunity I would be considering a water birth not only does it ease the labour but also gives your baby a subtle way of entering the environment. Seeking assistance by a midwife to guide the birth and a reliable partner who understood and believed in my birthing plan. Due to my age I would probably feel more comfortable in a hospital if I could be certain that my wishes were granted and intervention only occurred if the midwife felt necessary. Is this possible under the current regulations placed on midwifes and the hospitals? This I am not sure and unfortunately can’t offer any suggestions other than this website is a great starting point and will lead you onto the right path for you and your baby.

Thank you for your comments and I hope this has helped you with your journey, wishing you and your baby all the very best with your wonderful future.

Janelle x

I therefore relate very much with your story and am very sorry you went through your experience but thank you for sharing it. Since having been in hospital I then started to wonder what the birthing experience would be like…..more of the same….not control….big rush to prevent possible complications and prevent possible litigation.

I was wondering whether you may have any ideas now on options for birthing that rely less on interventions. I am based in Sydney and it was only whilst being in hospital recently that I overheard a lady visiting her mum next to me and talking about her horrendous experience. I felt like I was meant to hear it all. She said she had not idea what was going on, felt no control over what was done to her, had an episotomy which was excruciating, then got talked into an epidural which was also excruciating and then couldn’t push which resulted in a a ceser. She the interventions were the worst and most painful thing about the birth. I couldn’t believe my ears.

I just have no idea about natural birthing methods or where I can go in Sydney, so would appreciate any ideas.

Thanks again

All the best
Rose