Jaspreet's Birth Story

Having moved to the US from the UK I was unfamiliar with the medical system here, so it came as quite a shock that it is so intrusive and doctor-led. I was told that as I had gestational diabetes I would have to be induced in the 39th week, regardless of the baby’s size or condition. As there were no indications of any problems with the baby or me in the twice-weekly ultrasounds I was made to have from 28 weeks onwards, I refused induction and went into labour naturally one day after my baby’s due date.

My labour was quite long at 26.5 hours, with 14.5 hours of active labour. When we arrived at the hospital after 4 hours of active labour I was 6cm dilated, and only dilated an additional 1cm in 6 hours. I was exhausted and decided to take an epidural. I delivered a healthy baby girl vaginally with only a minor laceration, delivered the placenta within 5 minutes and had no need for Pitocin to contract my uterus – something I was also told I must have!We were amazed at how alert Isha was as soon as she was born. We did immediate skin-to-skin and she breastfed within a couple of minutes.I cannot thank you enough for your advice over the course of my pregnancy. I have no doubt in my mind that following the Gentle Birth Method is the reason why I had such a wonderful and comfortable pregnancy, as well as a relatively easy delivery. I also think it is the reason why Isha is so alert and calm! She is only a week old but for the last couple of nights has only woken me once for a feed. She is breastfeeding really well and sleeps soundly in between. She also has amazing neck support! Our baby nurse is astonished at how much control she already has. She listens very intently when spoken to and already follows voices around the room!

I have already lost most of my pregnancy weight and am feeling almost back to normal. I will definitely be following the method for my future pregnancies, and have been telling all of my friends about it, pregnant or not!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, I couldn't have done it without you and Nida for support and guidance.