My 4 Day Labour - How Hypnobirthing got me through!

My birth story was more than just a journey; it was a testament to patience and resilience that unfolded over four remarkable days. With each contraction, I felt myself drawn deeper into the rhythm of labor, every surge bringing me closer to the moment I would finally hold my baby in my arms. Despite the passing days, the advice from the hospital remained the same: go home, let labor progress naturally.

The contractions came and went, intensifying in the evenings and overnight and then dying off again. At their peak I could not sit or lie down as they became unbearable - it felt like I had been upright for days! Yet amongst these challenges and exhaustion, I found solace in the hypnobirthing techniques I had diligently practiced. And thank goodness I did. There was a moment where I suddenly realised the importance of having your own relaxation tools for labour and not just relying on the medical pain relief of the hospital. The truth is, the hospital didn’t want me in the Birth Suite until I was in more established labour, so labouring at home is what we did. I can’t even begin to imagine what my labour would have been like if I didn’t have the Hypnobirthing tracks, light touch massage, breathing techniques and various other tools!

Finally as the intensity of labor grew and continued to progress, I clung to the breathing and relaxation tools like a lifeline, allowing them to envelop me in a sense of calm amidst the storm. My husband, Hugh, stood by my side, a pillar of unwavering support and love. His intuitive understanding of my needs and his gentle encouragement bolstered my spirit, giving me the strength to endure each contraction with grace and determination. He was just so amazing at knowing what I needed.

This time we knew it was time to head to the hospital to welcome our beautiful baby. Hugh carefully prepared the car, packed the labour bag and prepped the back seat to try and make it as comfortable as possible. I had put together the car kit that Michelle recommended with all the goodies inside, the eye mask was amazing at keeping me tuned into my body.

When the time finally came for us to be admitted to the birth suite, exhaustion weighed heavily on my shoulders. Opting for an epidural brought a wave of relief, granting me the opportunity to rest and gather my strength for the final stage of labour. I was even able to achieve a short nap during this time which was crucial in allowing me the energy to push my baby out.

And then the time had finally come, with the epidural tuned off I was able to feel all the sensations including the pressure we had learnt about in our Hypnobirthing Course. With Hugh by my side, I summoned every ounce of determination and focus as I prepared to breathe my baby out. Drawing upon the tools and techniques I had learned, (the Lotus Flower, birthing positions, breathing techniques for pushing, vocialisation) I embraced each surge with unwavering resolve, trusting in the wisdom of my body and the support of my loving husband.

In a moment of pure empowerment, I felt the incredible sensation of my baby crowning and then all of a sudden I was bringing my baby into the world. As I reached down and delivered my own baby onto my belly, tears of joy streamed down my face, mingling with the overwhelming sense of gratitude for my amazing husband, the incredible experience of birth and the hypnobirthing tools that had guided me through the journey.

Despite the challenges and the twists and turns along the way, I emerged from the experience with a profound sense of empowerment. Through the power of hypnobirthing and the unwavering support of my husband, I had navigated my 4 day birth experience with grace, strength, and an unyielding belief in the magic of childbirth.

I want to extend my deepest thanks to Michelle for her invaluable Hypnobirthing course and ongoing support. Her teachings empowered me to embrace the birthing process with confidence, reminding me of the incredible strength that resides within each of us. Michelle, your guidance has been a beacon of light throughout my journey, and I am forever grateful for the tools and techniques you have imparted to me.

*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of the family