I was a little nervous about whether I could truly let go and trust my body. But once I did, everything shifted...

The reflection below is from Hannah, who’s birth I attended as an assistant midwife with my beloved midwife Oona. I’m eternally grateful for Hannah and Scott for welcoming me into their sacred birth space as this was the first birth that I attended consciously knowing that midwifery is the path I’m on and I’ll always remember it as such. I’m also forever grateful to Oona who’s trusting me enough to take me along! I got to see her amazing midwifery skills put into action when it was needed and I’m in awe of what a midwife’s hands can do. And Hannah, it was a joy to watch you laboring and giving birth in such peace and grace. Thank you!

What were you worried about or hoping for before birth?

Before birth, I mostly just hoped everything would go smoothly and peacefully. With my first, I didn’t really know what to expect, I thought I was relaxing, but looking back, I wasn’t, and labor was so long because of it.

So this time, I was a little nervous about whether I could truly let go and trust my body. But once I did, everything shifted. I fully surrendered, and my body progressed so quickly—it was such an empowering, completely different experience. I think reading Bradley Method really changed my mindset too and educated me on labor a little more!

Memorable moments (during pregnancy, birth or after)

There were so many memorable moments, but the overall feeling stands out the most. It was calm, intimate, and honestly really beautiful. I remember feeling so grounded the entire time, and just surrounded by such a supportive energy/birth team. Meeting our baby and having that immediate closeness at home was something I’ll never forget!

What did my presence change for you during labor or birth?

Greta’s presence truly made a difference. She had such a warm, calming energy, but also knew exactly when to step in and support in a really natural, professional way. She read the room so well, and that made me feel even more at ease. I felt completely comfortable with her there, which is huge in such a vulnerable space.

How did you feel afterward—about the birth and yourself?

Afterward, I just felt… proud. Grateful. Kind of in awe of the whole experience. It really reinforced my trust in my body, and I walked away feeling strong and really at peace with how everything unfolded.

And bonus question - how are y'all doing and adapting to life with a new baby?

We’re doing really well adjusting to life as a family of four now and soaking up all the sweetness of our baby boy. It’s been such a special transition watching our oldest step into her new role. I’m just so thankful I was able to do a natural birth exactly how I wanted and give birth to such a healthy baby boy!