Friday, January 23, 2009

Euphoria

My dear friend "K" just gave birth to a beautiful baby boy this morning. Her last birth ended up a c-section and she was going to try for a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) with this birth.


Now K and I are totally different people. In high school she and I would bicker a lot. It was more in fun than anything but we loved each other and continued our friendship into adulthood. When I told her I was becomming a doula she was very supportive and told me that was the perfect job for me. When she told me she was going for a VBAC I gave her my full support and told her if she wanted me during her labor for any reason to call.
Well this afternoon I got this wonderful message on my phone announcing the birth of her little boy at 6:42am. Then she said something that made me tear up, "I DID IT! I DID IT! I pushed him out! Just thought you might be proud of me." Then she giggled in a way I had never heard her giggle. The sound of her voice, the tone, the joy, took me back immediately to the moments after my children were born. It's an amazing high, one I don't know how to compare. What made it even more meaningful was that K and I, who disagree on most issues, now have a common ground where we can share, appreciate, and enjoy each other's triumphs.

I am so proud of her. I know what she has achieved and I think it's the most miraculous, powerful and beautiful moments she can experience. I can't wait to hear the details. Congratulations K on your triumphant VBAC and welcome baby "O!"

2 comments:

Erin said...

She did it! I am so proud of her!

When I went to the doctor at 34 weeks with the beginnings of preeclampsia, I was told by the doctor that it would have to be c-section and when I asked him if I could ever have a vaginal birth after that he said "no". I was completely crushed. Luckily, after spending a few hours at the hospital my blood pressure went back to normal and I escaped having to have the c-section. I was so scared when I was sent back to the hospital 2 weeks later because I was afraid they would tell me the same. Luckily I was induced and was able to do it vaginally. And while I did end up getting the epidural, the sense of accomplishment and the pure feeling of womanhood was indescribable.

I am hoping to have my next one completely naturally (possibly with the help of my favorite doula?). :)

Wendy said...

Erin, isn't the power of birth amazing? You most certainly did do it! Way to go mama!

For the next baby I would love to be your doula and I certainly would be happy to make other suggestions to keep you away from the pitocin and help you achieve your birth goals. :) Love you Erin-o!