All I want to say about this birth is that I hope my husband looks at me the way Tim looks at Ali <3 True love right there, friends. It was an absolute honor documenting their birth story and I seriously tear up every time I look at the images.
There is power in birth. Women are warriors, we’ve always been warriors. But now we can share that strength with the world without fear. I love celebrating birth with all of you.
Ali was kind enough to share about her birth story, and I would love for you to take the time to read. She is an excellent writer!
“As an obstetrician, I have been a part of countless births, each unique. Despite these experiences and knowing what is “normal” or “expected”, it is entirely different to be the mother, filled with excitement and fear in anticipation of delivering. My first son was born by a scheduled cesarean, and I felt I was as well-prepared as any parent could be. My delivery was uncomplicated, I was surrounded by my colleagues and friends, and my incredible team made it a birthday party to remember. (There was a great playlist, and there were even party hats and balloons!)
When I became pregnant again, my husband and I were ecstatic, but I was also filled with nerves. Fully understanding the possible outcomes, as I have witnessed miracles and tragedies, we began contemplating our “birth plan.” I was well aware of the risks of a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC), which can be devastating for both mothers and babies. However, repeat cesarean deliveries are also not without risk. After many dinner conversations, we opted to proceed with a trial of labor, and we had a very simple birth plan: healthy mom, healthy baby. If we had a successful vaginal delivery, wonderful! If at any point a cesarean was indicated, I was ready, and I trusted my team.
When the day came for us to meet our new child, I was overwhelmed with emotion, and was grieving the one-on-one time I would be losing with my toddler. Before we left for the hospital, he woke up for a few last snuggles, and once he drifted back to sleep we were on our way. I had not experienced labor with my first, but thought I would know what to expect. I was wrong. There is nothing that can prepare you for labor, but I was so fortunate to be surrounded by my colleagues and friends, who helped me cope with the pain, distracted me with good company and bad jokes, and reassured me when I was doubting my body’s ability. After receiving an epidural, I had nearly instantaneous relief, and I was able to relax. My husband and I played cribbage, we laughed at “That 70s Show”, and a few short hours later, it was time to push. I was in complete disbelief, but my physician and nurse reassured me that I was strong enough, and yes, I really was this close to meeting my new child. We laughed between pushes, and our baby, a second son, was born.
Delivering our son was one of the greatest days of my life, and has made me so thankful. I am thankful we were able to welcome this small, beautiful soul into our hearts, who has already grown the love in our household exponentially. I am thankful for my husband, who never left my side, and gave me strength when I needed it. I am thankful, and forever indebted to, the incredible women by my side, my colleagues, and my dear friends, who cared for me throughout this pregnancy journey, and who supported and cared for me and my son throughout labor, delivery, and postpartum. They surrounded us with love, reassurance, good humor, and kept my son and me safe, allowing us to succeed with our birth plan: healthy mom, healthy baby. “ – Ali
