I felt so relieved when he finally arrived. I think I was in shock… it was all such a blur but overall I felt proud
Reflection of a mama who got transferred from birth center to hospital and gave birth vaginally anyway - a testament of an awing womanly strength
Greta Nakliudaite-Perez
10/1/20263 min read
How did you feel afterward—about the birth and yourself?
I felt so relieved when he finally arrived. I think I was in shock… it was all such a blur but overall I felt proud. I knew that I gave it my all, even though I did not want to end up in the hospital. I didn’t like the way the epidural made me feel disconnected from my body and not able to feel contractions at all, but at that point I was also grateful for pain relief. I was most of all so happy and thankful that I did not have a c-section and that our baby was healthy, breathing, and perfect. I was sad that my placenta could not be encapsulated as we planned because of the uterine infection. I was disappointed about that and having to take antibiotics, but grateful that you were still willing to bring it home and store it for us to plant later. In a way it felt like I had two very different birth experiences in one and I guess in a way I am grateful to learn both approaches and perspectives.
The reflection below is by the sweetest, strongest mama I know who worked so so hard to get her baby out… And she did it! Did it herself, regardless of scary c-section threats by a not so thoughtful OB.
This birth started at home, continued in a birth center and ended in the hospital. When I arrived at the birth center, Elizabeth was laboring so beautifully and calmly while her husband was playing his guitar. I was certain the baby would be born within a couple hours!
It was many more hours than that, many unexpected turns, but such is birth (and life!) - sometimes things change and we have to adapt. She did in the most powerful way, I’m utterly humbled by the strength and determination I saw in this woman in the long hours pushing at the hospital. Forever grateful that you’ve welcomed me into your birth space, and have become my friends. ❤︎
What were you worried about or hoping for before birth?
My worries throughout pregnancy and leading up to birth were primarily making sure baby was healthy and that I was healthy so I could be at my best for delivery. I also worried about being overcome with anxiety/fear during birth which is what prompted me to seek more support and led me to finding you! Various little worries popped up leading up to birth, but none of those worries actually became a problem. Other things I had not anticipated became scary in the moment such as the baby’s positioning and the threat of having a C-section. Of course I hoped for an all natural birth, without any drugs or medicine, but at the end of the day my deepest wishes were that the baby was delivered safely and vaginally.
Memorable moments (during pregnancy, birth or after)
Meeting with you and getting to know you and your magical ways! I felt very empowered laboring at home and I understand why women would want to do it at home and not have to go anywhere. The car rides were tough. Being in the birth pool with Christopher was a highlight. Him making little jokes and playing guitar, taking care of me so calmly and confidently throughout the whole journey and immediately stepping into his new role as Dad so naturally made me fall in love with him even more - my perfect partner. Locking eyes with you during intense moments of labor was so powerful. I don’t know what possessed me to do that, but it felt profound! It’s hard to describe but knowing you and your birth stories gave me SO MUCH strength. Looking into your eyes felt as if I was tapping into your inner feminine strength and some sacred mama energy was being channeled! I admire you SO MUCH and I felt honored to have you by my side.
What did my presence change for you during labor or birth?
Your ever sweet, calming, non-judgmental and grounding presence provided me with SO MUCH reassurance and confidence not only during labor but throughout my pregnancy. Especially in moments when I felt vulnerable and began to doubt myself. You always seem to know intuitively what needs to be communicated to help me break out of my fear and tune into myself. During labor I looked upon you for strength and guidance which was communicated through energy, not just words.
