So what have I learned after 25 years. I started with such a devoted passion that each mom should have an unmedicated birth - it just felt right. I had experienced that myself 3 times and just knew that any mom who could have an unmedicated birth would be forever changed. Well, I do still believe that a mom who is able to meet the challenge of labor unmedicated - is profoundly changed. BUT I have also learned that an unmedicated birth is not the right path for every mom. Sometimes the option of medication or interventions are just what is needed for a birth. And more importantly - no matter how focused a mom is on having an unmedicated birth - babies can change all our plans. I've seen so many moms work through days of labor only to face the tough decision of a surgical birth - through no fault of their own magnificent effort - it was just the way it was going to have to be to have a safe delivery.
I've also seen time and time again the power a dad plays in the whole process. His presence is always welcome and needed. They are the strength of the room in so many ways and it is a joy to see a couple rely on each other to bring their baby into their arms.
I've learned that age can diminish your stamina but not your passion. I will attend a birth tomorrow, #744, and yet I will be as excited to be there as I was with my first birth. I feel so comfortable around labor.
Labor is a unique challenge - but one that can be met head on with support and knowledge. It is a path women are equipped to walk - so the more we can remove the fear from this process - the better off all moms-to-be will be. A healthy fear of this amazing process is normal. But a dreaded, worried fear of labor needs to be changed through more and more great birth stories.
