Regardless of how a new mother feels about all the details of her birth experience, the day she gives birth marks a critical point in her personal growth -- she is now responsible for a beautiful new life.
If you're a mama-to-be, birth stories are a great learning tool. One sure lesson is the importance of surrounding yourself with allies -- midwives, doulas, doctors, nurses -- who will listen, treat you with respect, support your birth choices and offer comfort measures other than medication. Sometimes complications arise and you may have to deviate from your birth plan. It's natural to feel overwhelmed, but you need to trust your instincts and realize that your body knows how to give birth.
For new mothers who have good feelings about their labor and birth, sharing their stories can be empowering. Positive feelings come from a woman experiencing every aspect of birth and feeling a strong connection with her own body. Sharing your baby's birth story is also important if you feel disappointed with some aspects of your labor and birth. You may find discussion helpful in resolving any negative feelings and focusing instead on your marvelous accomplishment.
Read on for many different birth stories and feedback from Lamaze International expert Judith Lothian, RN, PhD, LCCE, FACCE. There are wonderful lessons here. We hope you enjoy these stories and what they tell.
- "I Gave Birth Standing Up"
- "I Used a Variety of Comfort Measures"
- "I'm Happy I Had an Epidural"
- "The Medical Staff Didn't Listen"
- "I Gave Birth at Home"
- "I Loved My Natural Childbirth, but Pushing Was Painful"
- "I Had Preeclampsia, and My Baby Was Premature"
- "I Gave Birth to Twins Naturally"
- "I Had an Emergency Cesarean"
- "I Regret Being Induced"
- A Day You'll Never Forget
For more information, visit Lamaze International
