"Birthing experience at family birthing centre"

My Experience at the Family Birthing Centre

When I first mentioned the Family Birthing Centre to my friends, I was quite surprised that not many had even heard about it. It made me question whether I had made the right decision to have my first baby there.

But everything changed when I attended the introductory session at around 18 weeks and met my midwife, Steph. From that moment, I felt reassured.

Walking into the FBC didn’t feel like entering a hospital it felt calm, warm, and comfortable. A space that my body could trust.

Steph was incredible from the very beginning. There was never any rush. She always guided both me and my partner with so much patience, listening to us and supporting us in every possible way. She made us feel like we were truly in control. Every question we had was met with reassurance and care.

She introduced us to various programs and classes that supported us throughout the journey - hypnobirthing, aqua aerobics, water birth, TENS machines, and many other techniques to help manage pain during contractions.

When my second stage of labour began and we arrived at the FBC, the room was already prepared for us. The environment made such a difference, the dim lights, the quiet, the freedom to move, breathe, and follow my instincts.

There were moments of intensity, moments where I doubted myself but I was constantly encouraged by Steph and Megan. Their persistence and positive guidance are the reason I was able to have a normal vaginal birth, especially at a time when I had almost given up.

The hours after birth were just as special. There was no rush, no pressure—just time to bond, to breathe, and to take it all in. My birth plan was respected—skin-to-skin contact, delayed cord clamping, and everything we had hoped for. I felt cared for, respected, and truly empowered throughout the experience.

I did have a minor tear and needed to be transferred to the OT in the main hospital, but even that transition was handled seamlessly, without any stress or panic.

Olivia, my second midwife, stayed with me through the transfer to the OT, ensuring everything was clearly communicated to the doctors. She also completed all the necessary checks for the baby and stayed until I was in recovery. It meant so much to have a familiar and reassuring presence during that time.

After returning home, Steph visited us twice during the week to check in and make sure all our concerns were addressed. She also helped connect us with a lactation consultant and a child health nurse, which made the transition into those early days of parenthood so much smoother.

Steph was truly the best midwife I could have asked for for my first birth.

Looking back, the Family Birthing Centre gave me more than just a place to give birth, it gave me confidence in my body, trust in the process, and a deeply positive start to motherhood. I would definitely recommend it to all mums!