My Med-Free Birth Journey: Welcoming Baby Grant – A Hypnobirthing Story

Almost four glorious weeks have passed since our sweet son, Grant, made his grand entrance into this world, instantly flooding our lives with an immeasurable amount of love and joy. Every single day since his birth, my heart overflows with gratitude and happiness; it’s a feeling words can barely capture.

Overcoming Fear: My Lifelong Apprehension of Childbirth

Before diving into the vivid details of Grant’s arrival, a little backstory is essential. For what felt like my entire life – or at least a significant portion of it – I harbored an intense, almost debilitating fear of childbirth. This wasn’t a fleeting anxiety; it was a deeply ingrained apprehension that I often tried to push to the back of my mind.

That is, until earlier this year, when we discovered I was pregnant. The reality of impending motherhood brought this dormant fear to the forefront. It became clear that I needed a radical shift in perspective. I had to actively reframe my thinking about childbirth, conditioning my mind with positive affirmations and empowering thoughts.

Despite this pervasive fear, I was resolute: I wanted a **medication-free, natural birth**. I know, it sounds contradictory given my anxiety, but there was a significant driving force behind this decision. My absolute intolerance for needles – especially the thought of a large, thick needle in my back for an epidural – was a major deterrent. The mere idea sent shivers down my spine. So, with that conviction, my quest for effective natural birthing methods began.

Discovering Hypnobirthing: A Path to Calm and Empowerment

Serendipitously, during the Food & Wine Conference in Florida last year, I connected with Dianna, a fellow blogger and new mom from The Kitchen Prep. She enthusiastically recommended I explore the Hypnobirthing method, sharing how it profoundly assisted her in achieving a calm, natural birth. Her testimonial was a beacon of hope, and I am eternally grateful to her for that invaluable advice.

The Philosophy of Hypnobirthing: Beyond the “Hippie” Name

Being an inherently curious person, I immediately delved into researching Hypnobirthing. I devoured countless positive testimonials and decided to learn more about the program by reading their comprehensive book. What I discovered resonated deeply with me. Their philosophy, which emphasizes the body’s innate ability to give birth gently and efficiently, alongside practical techniques for relaxation and visualization, felt empowering.

I also located a certified Hypnobirthing instructor in my local area and, after a bit of gentle persuasion (and perhaps a little nagging!), convinced Garrat to join me for the course. These weren’t quick sessions; we committed to three 3-4-hour sessions, but it proved to be the best investment we ever made! We both gained so much knowledge and confidence. While the name “Hypnobirthing” might sound a bit “hippie,” as I often thought, I truly believe a name like “Calm Birthing” would more accurately reflect its essence.

Preparing Our Minds and Bodies for a Natural Arrival

The Hypnobirthing course taught us a wealth of techniques, from specific breathing patterns – focusing on long, slow inhales and exhales – to deep relaxation exercises and positive affirmations. We learned to view contractions as “surges” or “waves,” emphasizing that they are productive movements working with the body, not against it. Visualization played a key role, encouraging us to imagine a smooth, easy birth. Garrat’s participation was crucial, as he learned how to be an active, supportive birthing partner, guiding me through relaxation and providing comfort.

The Day My Water Broke: A New Year’s Surprise

It was New Year’s Day, and I was exactly 38 weeks pregnant. Around 9 PM, Garrat and I decided to practice our Hypnobirthing breathing techniques, knowing my due date was fast approaching and our practice had been minimal. After a few deep, calming breaths, I felt a distinct sensation, as if my water had broken. Initially, I hoped it was just my paranoia playing tricks.

I rushed to the bathroom, and BOOM! A significant gush of water confirmed my suspicions. I was in complete shock, my body trembling uncontrollably, and tears streamed down my face. My mom, who was visiting my sister in Australia and due back in a few days, was the first person I called. I sobbed to her, distraught at the thought of going into labor without her by my side (yes, I admit, I can be quite the child sometimes!). Talking to my mom and sister, and Garrat’s calm reminders to breathe deeply, slowly helped me regain some composure.

Then, a different reality set in, and I started laughing through my tears – because this also meant we would meet our little son very, very soon! Once calm, I called the hospital, and they instructed us to come in within two hours.

Immediate Aftermath and Hospital-Bound Preparations

Thankfully, earlier that very day, I had been preparing my hospital bag. Everything was conveniently laid out on the couch, ready to go. I had even meticulously written a detailed birth preference plan that afternoon, which now, in hindsight, feels quite humorous. My plan, based on the assumption of an uneventful process, didn’t account for my water breaking so early! It just goes to show how unpredictable childbirth can be.

With our bags packed and the car seat finally installed (yes, we were cutting it close!), we decided to try and relax for a few minutes. We turned off the lights and lay on the couch, but relaxation was impossible. After less than five minutes, the excitement and anticipation were too overwhelming, so we headed straight to the hospital.

The Waiting Game: Hospital Admission and Induction

We arrived at the hospital around midnight. After settling into our room, I communicated our preference to the nurse: we wished for labor to start naturally, and we’d prefer to rest until morning. Our wishes were graciously granted. I put on my eye mask, and we managed to sleep until 7 AM! To our surprise, there were still no contractions, no pain, nothing. It felt like any other day, yet it was undeniably monumental.

The doctor, however, had a different timeline in mind. They wanted me to have the baby within 24 hours of my water breaking, which meant induction would need to begin no later than 9 AM.

Pitocin and the Quest for Contractions

By 9 AM, with still no natural signs of labor, we commenced the Pitocin induction. The initial dosage was set at 2 (with the potential to increase up to 20), hoping to provide a gentle nudge for labor to kick in. Several hours passed, yet still no contractions. I repeatedly asked my nurse, “What do contractions feel like?” She described them as “cramping.” Yet, I experienced absolutely no cramping, no pain, no discomfort whatsoever. It was an odd sensation, to genuinely wish for pain, but at that moment, I desperately wanted to feel something that signaled progress.

The Doctor’s Deadline and Our Determination

Around noon, my doctor visited, informing me that to achieve a natural birth, I should aim to dilate approximately 1cm every hour from that point forward. This meant I needed to be dilated to at least 7cm by 7 PM. “Jeez, quite a pressure!” I thought, but bravely responded, “I’ll do my best.” The clock was ticking, and the urgency to make progress became palpable.

Embracing the Intensity: Labor Progresses

That afternoon, Garrat and I tried every trick in the book to encourage labor. We took naps, walked what felt like miles around the hospital halls, bounced on the birthing ball, played UNO, and even watched TV. Essentially, we were just trying to kill time and stay positive. Simultaneously, the Pitocin dosage was gradually increased every hour.

By approximately 5 PM, I started experiencing noticeable cramping, coming and going. “I guess this is what contractions feel like!” I thought, though they were far from unbearable. However, as 7 PM approached, the contractions intensified to the point where I had to pause and breathe through each one. Finally, some tangible progress!

Finding Comfort Amidst Contractions: Hypnobirthing in Action

As the contractions grew stronger, I found it increasingly difficult to remain in bed. Lying down made me feel helpless and exacerbated the pain. My body craved movement, so I found relief by walking, sitting, or bouncing on the birthing ball. We even tried a bath in the Jacuzzi tub, which wasn’t as helpful as we hoped, but we were willing to try anything to distract my mind and manage the intensity.

I attempted to engage in Hypnobirthing relaxation techniques, but the pain made it challenging to lie still and relax. Instead, I focused on listening to my birth affirmations, repeating powerful phrases to myself like, “I am relaxed and happy that my baby is finally coming to me. I am focused on a smooth and easy birth. I trust my body to know what to do.” These words, coupled with Garrat’s consistent encouragement, became my anchors.

The Epidural Dilemma: A Moment of Doubt and a Partner’s Strength

At 9 PM, my doctor returned. It had been 24 hours since my water broke, and I had only dilated to a meager 5cm. However, because both my baby’s heart rate and my blood pressure remained stable, he offered us a lifeline: we could wait until morning. If no significant progress was made by then, a C-section would be necessary. Oh my goodness, I was ecstatic at the prospect of more time! Yet, a deep worry gnawed at me – what if I still didn’t progress?

The doctor also suggested an epidural, implying that perhaps I wasn’t relaxing enough for the contractions to do their work. An epidural sounded incredibly tempting at that moment. I was growing tired, hungry, and most importantly, I was worried that my inability to relax was hindering the process.

Garrat, on the other hand, was not convinced. He proposed a short walk in the hall before making such a significant decision. I didn’t verbally respond; instead, I gave him what he later described as a “dirty look” – a silent protest against more movement when all I wanted was relief. By then, my contractions were quite strong, but mercifully, there were still short breaks in between, allowing me to catch my breath and gather my thoughts. Thank God for those brief respites!

During those precious short breaks, I wrestled with the decision of whether to get an epidural. Before I could make up my mind, an overwhelming urge to push suddenly swept over me. I initially thought I needed to use the restroom, but decided to alert the nurses just in case. They swiftly entered the room to check my progress. To our astonishment, I had dilated to almost 8cm! Whoa! That was incredibly fast, especially after a long day of seemingly little advancement. We had finally made significant progress!

Still, it was too early to push. The nurses coached me to breathe through the contractions, emphasizing “no pushing.” It was around 10:20 PM, and I was in full active labor, screaming and, I confess, cussing in both English and Mongolian. I remember telling Garrat, through gritted teeth, that I needed an epidural. His response? “Let’s wait until 11 PM, and if there’s no progress, you’ll get an epidural.” I’m sure he received another one of my infamous dirty looks.

The Triumphant Push: Meeting Our Son

Nurse Mary was on my left, providing calm coaching through my breathing, while Garrat stood on my right, offering unwavering emotional support. From all the screaming, I became incredibly thirsty and craved something cold. Mary brought me some popsicles, but they were too sweet for my parched throat, so I asked for crushed ice. When Mary returned with the ice, I distinctly smelled strong coffee. “I smell coffee! I don’t wanna smell coffee!” I yelled, believing someone else had brought a cup into the room. It turns out, bless her heart, Mary had taken a quick sip of coffee while getting my ice. I truly didn’t mean to be harsh! Then, while she was getting some gum, I asked Garrat to coach me. After a few breaths, I retorted, “Never mind, you’re exhaling too strong!” I was quite the handful, I tell you!

I also remember being acutely aware of another pregnant woman in the next room, who had checked in earlier that day. In between my intense contractions, I worried that my screams were terrifying her. I later learned she had been sent home, relieving me of that particular concern.

A Powerful Delivery: The Final Moments

Around 11 PM, I had dilated to 9cm! More incredible progress! I decided to stick with my original plan and forgo the epidural. It was by no means easy; in fact, it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever experienced. At one point, I emphatically told Garrat that I was only having one child – “No more kids, please!”

My wonderful nurse, Mary, continuously comforted and encouraged me, “That’s the girl! You’ve got this!” Meanwhile, another nurse began setting up the room for delivery. As extra carts filled with tools and the baby station were wheeled in, I knew things were truly happening. This was it!

I kept asking if the doctor had been called and, most importantly, when I could finally push! Oh my gosh, the urge to push was overwhelming. The next thing I knew, the doctor was there, and I was told we were ready for the baby! That was simply music to my ears. After one initial “practice push” that didn’t quite hit the mark, I quickly got the hang of it. I remember the joyous cheers from my husband and the nurses: “Keep pushing! He’s almost out!” Such encouragement fueled me, motivating me to push harder with each contraction.

The First Glimpse of Grant: Pure Perfection

With just three powerful pushes in less than five minutes, our sweet little boy was born at 12:04 AM. He weighed a healthy 7 lbs 13 oz and was 20 inches long. The moment they placed that tiny, warm munchkin on my chest, an overwhelming wave of love and happiness washed over me. I felt utterly complete. I hadn’t cried as I expected, but instead, I simply stared at this perfect little human that I now got to call mine. He was, and is, pure perfection.

Our Son’s Unique Name: Grant Temujin

During my pregnancy, Garrat and I couldn’t agree on a name, each of us having our own picks. So, we made a pact to choose his name only after our son arrived. On the day he was born, we wrote our two preferred names on separate slips of paper, placed them into a bag filled with rice (following a unique Mongolian tradition!), shook the bag, and whichever name emerged on the surface would be his first name. That’s how our son received his beautiful name: Grant Temujin.

Reflections on a Miraculous Journey

Are you still reading? I truly hope I haven’t bored you too much with every detail of our incredible journey. I could easily go on and on, sharing all the amazing progress Grant has made since his arrival, but I’ll pause here. This natural birth experience, supported by Hypnobirthing and Garrat’s unwavering presence, taught me immense strength and resilience I never knew I possessed. It was challenging, intense, and utterly miraculous.

If you’re interested in more baby-related posts or tales from our parenting adventure, please let me know in the comments below. Perhaps I’ll consider adding a new section to the blog dedicated to all things baby! Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story. ❤️