On Friday evening, my client went in to have a foley balloon inserted into her cervix. This is a non-pharmaceutical method of starting labor by encouraging the cervix to ripen and dilate. However, while her balloon was being inserted, her water broke! So instead of going home to give the balloon some time to work, she spent the night in the hospital, trying to sleep. Too bad sleep is a hard a hard thing to get in the hospital.
Pitocin was started at 6:45 am, and we kept in touch over text throughout the morning. By 10:00, things were starting to get uncomfortable for mom, so I made my way over.
When I arrived mom was resting in the bed, feeling uncomfortable and anxious about the day. I suggested walking and modified-squatting to help labor pick up and to encourage baby to descend, so we hit the halls at 11:20. We spent the majority of her labor walking in between contractions, and leaning over and swaying during contractions. Her husband and I took turns massaging her hips and back, and encouraging her all along the way.
We made frequent stops in front of the room so the nurse could listen to the baby. By 1:00 I could tell that we had crossed into hard active labor. Contractions were lasting much longer and mom was having to cope through them more. That being said, I had no idea how long it would take. Inductions can literally take days, so I always prepare my clients for the long haul!
Grandma stopped by at 1:45 with food and encouragement. Mom was too far into labor to eat at this point though, but dad go to eat!
Mom became tired at 2:00 and climbed into bed to rest. We put a peanut ball between her legs and played relaxing music. At 2:20 she said she had to push. I was taken off guard! She was coping way too well to be ready to push! The nurse checked her and she was 8 cm. At 2:40 she was 10 cm and her baby was already at +2 station!
Mom started out pushing on her hands and knees, but her baby's heart rate indicated that it wasn't a good position for baby.
13 minutes later, this sweet chunk entered the world!
She pinked up so fast and had the most beautiful skin!
She also had a very robust cry!
This mama was so strong! A medication-free induction is not an easy task!
Holding hands with mommy for the first time... so sweet!
Nursing by 3:40
Welcome Arya!
Born Saturday, October 6th, 2018 at 2:53 pm
8 days after her due date
9 pounds 5 ounces
