Jennie's empowering second birth following a traumatic first experience

Hi Zoe,

I wanted to let you know that baby Wilber arrived hastily and in good health in the early hours of 28 May at 38 weeks, weighing just shy of 9lbs. 

We had the most amazing birth experience and I can’t thank you enough. After the traumatic birth of our daughter 4 years ago Wilber’s birth has been such a tonic. 

I woke up around midnight thinking I’d picked up a tummy bug and spent two hours curled up in a pile of towels in the bathroom using all the calming breathwork. By 2am I realised I was in labour and quite far advanced so we made a dash to kings at 3am. At one point I thought Wilber might arrive in the bus lane!

Throughout the transition I felt totally calm and in control and just focused on the breathing and visualisations we practised.

By the time we got to the hospital we were rushed to labour ward and for some reason I was immediately asked if I wanted an epidural, despite finding the contractions totally manageable. The work we had done gave me the confidence to say no thank you and to focus on my breathing and the position that felt right for me to be in.

3 hours later Wilber was born with the help of gas and air and two paracetamol that I’m sure were largely just for show.

It was an incredibly intense experience but throughout I felt safe and confident and in the moments that started to feel overwhelming I was able to come back to my breathing and give clear instructions about what I needed and what I didn’t consent to.

12 hours after arriving we were sent home with a healthy baby and able to settle straight into life at home.

The first thing I said when Wilber was out on me was “I’ve just breathed a baby out!” I don’t think the disbelief has worn off yet. 

Thank you so much for your support. I didn't know this kind of empowering birth experience was possible for us. 

Best wishes,

Jennie