HELEN'S BIRTH STORY

From the moment I discovered I was pregnant I began the usual route of booking with my community midwife for antenatal care. Although the level of care I received was satisfactory I still felt as though I was being swallowed into a system.

I knew that I wanted to be cared for in a more personal and woman centred way, especially as this was my first pregnancy and I felt particularly vulnerable in the early days. I decided then that there must be another way.

After searching the internet I came across ‘Beautiful Beginnings’. Phil & I arranged to meet with Tamara at our home, and from our first meeting we both felt reassured, relieved and safe to be in Tamara’s care.

Phil’s point of view

I could see that my wife was feeling alone, frightened & anxious at the thought of giving birth, and she was searching for possible reassurances or ways to make this pregnancy a more pleasurable experience.

After our first meeting with Tamara, Helen & I were relived, we had found someone who was able to give both of us confidence, support and reassurance, and make us focus on the incredible journey we would be undertaking.

Tamara and I arranged my antenatal appointments mainly in the evening, which was better as it allowed Phil to be more involved in the pregnancy. These times were relaxed, informative and each week covered a different topic.

Tamara was also able to lend me a number of books and DVDs, as well as giving us sound advice and guidance allowing Phil and I to reach our own informed decisions. This gave me a feeling of being in control.

I eventually decided on a home birth, and to hire a birthing pool. Although I always knew that this would only be possible if our baby arrived on time and all was well.

As my due date drew nearer so I made more use of the pool. Great for relaxing in as they’re much deeper and warmer than a regular bath tub, especially when surrounded by candles and favourite music. I was also able to practice some exercises I’d learnt at my aqua yoga class, and the water really did take the weight of my ever expanding bump!!

As my due date came and went, Tamara and I discussed induction. I had 2 sweeps while at home, however our baby was obviously far too comfortable and as week 42 approached Tamara booked me in at Princess Alexandra hospital for induction. Tamara explained to Phil that he should call her once I was in established Labour and she would come to the hospital.

Phil called Tamara just as I was being transferred to the labour ward to let her know how quickly things were happening, as it turned out Tamara was already making a planned visit to us.

Tamara arrived in the delivery room and worked alongside the hospital midwife, she encouraged me to listen to my body –rather than others in the room, provided support to Phil, helped to deliver our baby girl and informed the hospital midwife of how I wished to be cared for. All this took the pressure off Phil allowing him to focus on supporting me. Our beautiful baby girl was born within an hour and half, with a natural delivery and I managed on gas & air.

Tamara advised me to stay in hospital for one night (although I was able to come home the same day) I listened to her advice and stayed the night which proved beneficial.

Once at home Tamara visited us as a family the same day and again in the first week. Tamara was always available on the phone for advice, and was able to make more frequent visits if needed, invaluable for a first time mummy and daddy!

Even though my birth was different from how I had planned it, it was still my most empowering and amazing achievement.

Phil and I have both found having Tamara, was one of the best decisions we have made, and feel sure that having this level of care and support has contributed to having a content and relaxed baby, mummy and daddy!

Thank you! xx