Our little one sure is keeping us busy!
Our son Linus Fredrik was born on November, 5th. It took us 14 hours. To me, it seemed more like 8, to Franz it seemed like 20. :)
We were able to have the natural birth we hoped for. Was it the most painful experience of my life? Yes! By far! Did hypnobirthing help me? Yes, absolutely! I managed to refuse an epidural and medication to "help things along". It was suggested several times, since to our midwives, my surges didn't seem so strong.
I also stayed very calm, didn't yell at Franz, didn't whine or cry. I constantly remembered my birthing affirmations and heard in my head "every surge brings your baby closer to you" as well as "turn your birthing over to your body and your baby". :)
After eleven hours, the doctor came in and advised us to open the bag of waters manually since my cervix had not opened any wider for more than three hours. I agreed and was relieved because afterwards I really felt the birth progressing.
When he was almost ready to come out, the midwife allowed me to start pushing. I did once but realized that wasn't helping at all. I remembered how you described "the ring of fire", and I knew it wasn't time yet. So when I finally felt it 20 minutes later (very accurate description!), it only took three surges to push/breathe him out.
After the umbilical cord stopped pulsating, Franz was allowed to cut it.
Linus did not scream or cry. He looked at me intensely and cuddled up in my arms. The midwife told us that it was a very relaxed birth and that we have a very relaxed baby. This ist still true two months later. Linus is very sweet, curious, observant and does not cry much. He loves the sound of his own voice and tries to communicate in large variety of noises. Our midwife, who comes every week for weighing and checking in, and answering questions, is always impressed by the range of syllables he already "speaks".
After the birth, the midwifes left us alone in the warm and dimly lit delivery room to get to know each other and for me to take a shower. Only two hours later, the pediatrician took a look at him and declared him healthy.
Three days later we left the hospital and started our new life as a small family. We are grateful every day for our healthy and happy little boy and to have experienced the birh like we planned.
Thank you so much Debi for preparing and teaching us! I have attached a photo of Linus (3 days old) wearing the little hat you gave him.
All the best and a great 2015 for you!
Annika, Franz and Linus
Aracelis Pisano
International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Nursing Student,
Mom of 2 HypnoBirthed Young Boys
Ari's training and personal experience allows her to work with nursing families to provide clinical expertise and empathetic counseling at any point in their breastfeeding journey.
She currently works with families from all over the country through virtual meetings, plus newborn and NICU care at Mount Sinai South Nassau plus serves local families through in-person care.
Nicole Stasi
Certified Life Coach,
HypnoBirthing Educator,
Mom of 2 HypnoBirthed Young Boys
Nicole is here as an unwavering hand holding for you the highest version you have for yourself, through all of your self-doubts and fears, until you can hold this space for yourself.
She is the support and strength you need to make the decision to make this time different and become the best version of you, to start living the life you want, and to begin showing up for yourself in ways you never have before!
She works specifically with mamas in their 30s and 40s wo need to make a shift in theri career to fulfill their life's purpose and create happier lives as they raise their children.
Childbirth Retreat
relax & learn with your partner
You’ll stay in a beautiful setting enjoying a private room, heavenly sheets with a beautiful view. Start the mornings by sleeping in, or joining us for gentle, beginner level yoga and catered breakfast.
Late mornings and afternoons will be spent focused on learning about birth, coping techniques and options for pain management, caring for baby, feeding baby, and baby-proofing your relationship. We’ve built in adequate breaks and rest time.
Use the evenings and breaks to explore the local area, feel your feet in the sand/dip your toes in the river, roast s’mores by the fire, and spend time with each other.
We’ll provide welcome reception, allowing you ample time in the evenings for dinners together, a hike, or simply relaxing by the fire, watching the waves crash or listening to the crickets.
Optional:
• flight arrangements
• spa services
Luxury Childbirth Retreat for you and your partner
- Private Room with views when possible
- Breakfast & Lunch included
- Welcome reception arrival night
- One in-room pregnancy massage
- Full childbirth education curriculum
- Coping Techniques
- Breastfeeding 101
- Partner Tips & Tricks
- Preparing for Postpartum
- Newborn Care
- Feeding & Safe Sleep
- Optional learning opportunities, including one-on-one “ask a doula” sessions & parental coaching year one
