Cathryn’s VBAC

When I first arrived in my hospital room to birth my baby I felt anxious and more uncomfortable than I ever had. I didn’t want to be there. There were machines beeping, it smelt clinical, and it just felt like I was far from home. I sat on a birthing ball, panicking a little. My partner turned on my birth tracks, we dimmed the lights, I closed my eyes and forced myself to take deep breathes and think about my peaceful place (for me it was a rainforest with the sounds of running water, cicadas and tropical birds). Immediately my heartbeat slowed, and it carried me through my labour.

Before I knew it I was nearing full dilation, ready to birth my beautiful boy. I took my body’s lead through pushing, all the while listening to my peaceful soundtrack and resting in between surges. After one final push, my baby boy was placed in my arms and my heart felt so full as I cuddled him against my skin.

I really wasn’t sure what to expect when I first signed up to the hypnobirthing course, but it was one of the best decisions I have made. Instead of feeling scared of the unknown, I went into my son’s birth feeling confident and at ease. Hypnobirthing isn’t about achieving a ‘perfect’ or pain-free birth. It’s about arming yourself with the knowledge and the tools so that you can feel calm and in control no matter what.

Months later, when I listen to that same playlist at home, I tear up thinking about one of the greatest days of my life. I highly recommend Jess and Hypnobirthing Australia for all soon-to-be mums, especially for anyone feeling anxious about childbirth.