I went to the birth center when my contractions were 4 minutes apart, 1min long lasting for one hour. At this time, I was only 2 cms dilated, so I was advised to go home. Instead my son’s father (birth coach), birth support team, and I had a strenuous walk in the soft sand of mission beach. This was a very efficient time for my body, as my contractions significantly increased in the intensity during this time my birth coach called BSBC and described my demeanor and contractions. We were invited back to the birth center. We arrived at 7:30am. I was now 4 cm dilated and much more serious about labor. I tired out the shower for a short while, but decided the tub would be more comfortable for me. While in the tub, I tired really hard to relax and let go loud, low-pitched moans during contractions. This turned into very piercing; screeching noises mixed in with other much necessary coping mechanisms. I briefly got out of the tub so that my water could be broken. Once this was complete, I immediately returned to the tub.
After 27 minutes of an intense pushing stage, I delivered my baby at 10:30am in the squatting position into the water. Adrian, intern, caught my baby from behind and handed him forward to his father, whom then lifted the baby from the water and placed him into my chest. This was the most exhilarating moment of my life! I laid back in the tub embracing my baby, chest to chest. At this point I thought that my baby was a girl (as informed by a dr. I was previously receiving care from). The Best Start crew could see that my expectations of giving birth to a girl would not actually come to fruition. However they didn’t ruin the surprise for me and the father. I was told to,” lift my baby up and take a good look”. Upon doing so I saw some unexpected anatomy. SURPRISE!! It’s a Boy!
I was allowed to go home shortly afterward. I felt great and was so lucky to take a nap with my son that afternoon in my own bed!! The recovery was amazing. My body bounced back and I had energy in no time. My son was alert and healthy. I’m so glad I had a natural birth. I couldn’t imagine giving birth any place other than BSBC, just the way nature intended!!

I first gave birth at Best Start Birth Center about two years ago which went really well. I left with such an extremely positive birth experience. With my second pregnancy, I was a little fearful that my second birthing experience would not be as ideal as the first. However, it was just as wonderful!

I went into labor early in the morning and labored throughout the day using the exercise ball, walking outside and eventually in the bath tub. When it was time to start pushing, I was able to have my son in the bath tub (which I was unable to do with my first son because there was meconium when my water broke). The entire experience went more smoothly then we could have hoped. It was neat that both my sons were born in the same room!

My husband and I have been thoroughly pleased with, the births of our two sons, as well as with all the midwives and nurses throughout my pregnancies and labors. The kindness and experience of all of the staff members positively contributed to our wonderful experiences. We have been so grateful for our opportunities to have our two healthy sons at Best Start.

 Joseph - born March 9, 2006 8lbs 10oz
 Jacob - born December 13, 2007 7lbs