From early labour at home to a highly emotional delivery, Frieda shares how she moved through each stage with determination, support, and trust in her body and baby.
I was fast approaching 40 weeks of pregnancy when my midwife offered me a stretch and sweep, which I decided to take. To her surprise, I was already 3cm dilated, which made me feel empowered knowing my body was already progressing.
A few days later, still no labour, and I was feeling discouraged despite trying everything to naturally encourage things along. My midwife offered another stretch and sweep, and this time I was about 4cm dilated, which gave me hope again.
Not long after, I woke early in the morning to contractions and quickly realised this was it. I began timing them and could really feel them in my hips. Sitting was uncomfortable, so I lay on my side, which helped. I showered, packed my bag, and we set up the TENS machine on my back. I started on a low setting and used the boost with each contraction, which helped me stay calm and focused while listening to gospel music.
I was comfortable at home but eventually made my way to hospital. When I arrived, I was shocked to be told I was already 8cm dilated. I continued using only the TENS for pain relief and increased the intensity as things progressed. Later, I combined it with gas, which helped further.
I moved into the water for my planned water birth and continued labouring, but after some time I still didn’t have the urge to push. I pushed with each contraction, but progress stalled. My waters were broken to help things along, and I continued pushing, but baby’s heart rate began to drop.
An obstetrician confirmed baby was positioned with his brow presenting, not the crown, and despite attempts to turn him, it became clear he needed assistance. I was taken to theatre, where I received an epidural and later a forceps delivery was recommended.
With each contraction, I pushed with support from my husband. Hearing him say, “I can see him!” gave me the final strength I needed. Our baby boy was born and placed on my chest, and it was the most overwhelming and emotional moment of my life.
I needed stitches afterward due to a significant tear and blood loss, but was reassured everything that could be done had been done.
While my birth didn’t go exactly as planned, I feel incredibly empowered knowing I gave it everything I had for a natural birth and that interventions were needed for safety. We are beyond grateful for our healthy baby boy, Josua, and feel deeply thankful for how it all unfolded.
Frieda
