In May of 2000, a new mother was born. Yes, a new mother was born as I gave birth to my first child, a sweet 7 pound 12 ounce baby boy! I felt so vulnerable and yet so empowered at the same time; birth is an amazing transition into motherhood.
I prepared for birth like a student prepares for a thesis. I studied and read every book I could get my hands on. I also spoke with other moms and did countless internet searches for “birth stories.” I wanted to be well educated about this most important event that would change my life. I was about to become a Nurturer, a Friend, an Educator, an Encourager, a Comforter… a Mother! After a few months of research, I was convinced that a natural birth was the one for me! No drugs, just loads of encouragement from my birth “coaches.” Then, I decided to do something really drastic….I chose a Midwife team for a home birth! My family was completely freaking out! My friends had never considered a homebirth either. My Dad had countless “talks” with me about the advancement of medical technology and asked me at least 20 times, “Why?”. A planned homebirth is not for everyone. Why me? I chose a homebirth because it made me feel more comfortable to think about having my baby in my own home and away from distractions and interventions. I did not want to be offered drugs for my labor. I felt confident in the way my body was created to give birth. I chose two wonderful, educated and competent midwives who trust that the woman’s body was strategically designed to bring forth life. I was in labor for 24 hours with this first child. I was exhausted and exhilarated at the same time. I labored in my own bedroom and bathtub, riding the waves of each contraction, hanging on to my husband, with white knuckles, for support. This first birth taught me endurance. I endured hours and hours of the unknown as my body ripened for the delivery of a precious soul. I had no idea where I was during the process, whether I was in “early labor” or “transition” but I listened carefully to my midwives for guidance. They used herbs and homeopathy to assist and ease the effects of labor. When my son was born at 5:30 the next morning, I immediately started singing! It was truly an amazing feeling to work so hard and endure so much pain for so long, to hold a tiny, soft baby and feel completely overwhelmed with love and joy. A Mama was born that day. I instantly acquired a new title, and it is the best and most fulfilling occupation I have ever had. Judy has given birth to three incredible children, two at home with a midwife team and the last child at a “birth house” in Tennessee with the same midwives. Why Tennessee? Because Alabama law doesn’t recognize the Certified Professional Midwife as a healthcare practitioner. She is Co-Founder and Co-Facilitator of “Birth Stories and More”, a monthly discussion group for Moms and Moms-to-be to promote natural birth options and healthy living. There is no charge; anyone is welcome to visit! Please contact Judy for more information @ judy@shesmiles.com.
By: Judy Cleve
