"Positive birth experience"

I wanted to take a moment to share my very positive birth experience at Box Hill Hospital. Special shout out to Christina S from the MGP who attended to our birth that night. She is an absolute superstar! Also to Vanessa and Tilly our other midwives from the MGP.

A very positive birth story (although a bit lengthy):

About 1am, still awake in bed due to discomfort in sleeping positions (nothing new though haha) contractions started. Out of nowhere. 3-4mins apart. Called the hospital they said to not time them for an hour, focus on resting etc. and verbally coached me through the pain of a few contractions over the phone. By 2:30am the contractions were so intense and 2-3mins apart. So hubby and I made our way to the hospital, 45mins from where we live. The car trip was agony but we made it by 4am.

My midwife (Christina) had everything prepared for me as per my birth plan. Dim lightening, music playing, water bath ready. She coached me through for the first hour on the bed. My birth plan was specific about certain things, females only, no drugs, no vaginal exams for checking for dilation unless it was specifically required for the safety of my son. She knew what I wanted and what I didn't which meant I didn't need to ask her for anything or refuse anything. I believe Christina just did what she knew I needed. I felt safe and calm in her care.

She was calm and gave me all the right prompts and advice, she kept her voice low which kept me calm. My husband was incredible and so supportive, present with me and loving. When I felt like I couldn't do it, they both reminded me how strong I was and empowered me to keep going.

By 5am we were getting into the water. My waters broke just before being in. By 6:34am, my husband was delivering our son! Christina also guided him on how to do that. Another midwife was present for the birth and took photos for us so we can remember it all for years to come. She also made sure a specific song was playing the moment we met our son as per my birth plan.

I had a small tear from the quick labour (and his head size) which needed suturing. Thankfully that was attended to promptly and efficiently with the aid of some gas for it. Again Christina was by my side, held my hand and coached me through that knowing my trauma history.

Based on this experience, I cannot speak highly enough of the midwives from the MGP at Box Hill Hospital, specifically Christina. She was perfect, professional, kind, knowledgeable, supportive and advocated for my wishes the whole way through. I felt empowered for being able to do it without pharmaceutical assistance and everything she did advocated for that. Christina and the MGP/maternity services have left a positive lasting impression on my husband and I. I feel truly blessed to have had this experience with the people I did.