A dream come true

We are so blessed to have finally been able to access midwifery care here in New Brunswick for our fourth birth. My three previous births were hospital births, where I received mostly kind and professional care, but I have long wished to experience a natural homebirth. About half way through my pregnancy, we were accepted into midwifery care, and switched over from our local prenatal unit. The midwives were exceptional! Of course, I have favorites, but all of them were kind and professional. They always took the time to explain things, give options, and answer questions. When it came time for the birth, I had to call in the wee hours of the morning. I wasn't certain this was actually "the real thing" , as I 'd been having some early labor off and on for a few days. They arrived, cheerful and bright, in spite of having been woken up and driving out to our home at night. (We live on the outer edge of their service zone.) They quietly set up and proceeded with their work of simply being present, quietly observing, occasionally monitoring after contractions, just being friendly and relaxed and not at all intrusive. They were there, but gave us space to labor. My husband was my main support through the labour, which is exactly what I had hoped for. My mama and my aunt (doula) were also present, and our children were sleeping upstairs. Labor progressed smoothly over the next few hours, and shortly after dawn it seemed that we were getting close to delivery. At this point I wasn't certain if I wanted to deliver upstairs in our room, as planned, or if I wanted to remain downstairs in the living room. The midwives were so willing to accommodate whatever I wanted. Eventually, we decided on the bedroom, and moved up there as I began to feel a stronger urge to push. It soon got really intense. In spite of this, the midwives remained a calm and confident presence, still giving such respect for my choices, asking before doing an internal exam, gently explaining options, giving suggestions, and never interfering without consent...ultimately supporting us with such grace through a difficult birth. When I felt desperate, they were always kind. After a short eternity and with their skilled assistance, our big boy made his arrival. He required some suctioning, so one took care of him with their setup they had prepared right beside our bed, while the other attended me in birthing the placenta. Through this, the midwives presented as caring, confident and skillful. Then my baby and I rested in bed together and worked on his first feed. I'll spare you every detail, but suffice it to say, I am blown away by the level of respect and care I was given! And that did not end with the birth. Their post-partum care was amazing, as well. When we discharged from their care at 6 weeks postpartum, I felt like they had become my friends, having been part of such a memorable experience for me. They also voluntarily gave me a copy of my prenatal and birth records, which was wonderful. In summary, although the birth was more difficult than I expected or hoped for, I could not have asked for a better experience. To birth in the comfort of my own home and family, with the support of these kind, knowledgeable, and skillful midwives was truly a dream come true. I will always be thankful for this.