My water broke the morning of my due date . My husband wanted to run to the hospital, but since I wasn’t having contractions I knew we could take our time. I showered, did my hair and makeup, ate breakfast, and even managed to convince my husband to stop at a temple on the way to the hospital so we could have a moment of zen and good vibes.
My labor did not progress naturally – no contractions and no dilation, even though my water had broken. I did not want Pitocin and the nurses really wanted me to get started on it. I stayed strong and did not let them start me on it until about 12 hours after my water broke. At that point, I felt like I had given my body a solid chance to progress, and I felt comfortable moving forward with the Pitocin.
I felt well informed – I knew what I wanted and what I didn’t want, and I knew that I needed to be flexible. I spoke up for myself several times – I don’t think I would have even known I could do that if I hadn’t taken the Push Lab! I told them I wanted to eat when they tried to push all liquids, I delayed Pitocin for as long as I felt comfortable, I confirmed that my delivery room would just be my doc, nurse, husband, and me, and that it would be dim and quiet and peaceful.
More importantly, the Push Lab prepared me for a strong relationship with my husband – so necessary during the difficult first weeks postpartum! I am so grateful for the relationship-building that this class facilitated. My husband and I have never had a stronger marriage, and I attribute much of that to Betsey’s class.
It was so easy! The epidural and the peaceful vibes made it calm and chill.
So relieving. We tried for several years and it was such a relief to finally have him in my arms and alive.
Prepare your relationship as much as you prepare your body and mind.