Birth #4

Theresa’s Birth
May 4, 2008
4:16 p.m.
7 pounds, 11 ounces

Theresa's birth was quick. The labor, however, was a different story. Catherine went into labor around 2am on Monday, May 4th. She called me, complaining of back pains. She didn't know what it was because with her previous two labors, her water had broken, and that was her queue to go to the hospital, the baby was on its way. This time, things started differently. When her back pain became unbearable, Catherine decided to go to the hospital. When I arrived, she was strolling the halls to manage her pain, which she was doing very well. I could tell that the contraction feeling was kicking in and she was definitely in labor. We went into her labor room to get settled. Catherine was visibly uncomfortable so I reminded her to focus on her breath, to keep it present and deep. Her partner, Ron, was very supportive and kept the room vibe in the room positive and fun, at least for me. He was cracking jokes, or perhaps just being himself. Either way, he was quite a character. Catherine chimed right on in. Their sense of humor seemed to help pass the time. Catherine’s initial thought was that this labor would be similar to her two previous labors, short and manageable. But, she dilated slowly, she thought. We tried many different positions and pain management resources including the use of a rebozo, massage, and rythmic breathing. Catherine's doctors decided to start her on pitocin after about 7 hours of labor and slow dilation. Her body responded well and her contractions came more frequent and regular. Prior to the pitocin, she received a small dose of morphine. Things were progressing as we continued to change her position and activity every hour or so. By 3:00, Catherine felt she was ready to push. The doctors encouraged her to wait until she felt a really strong urge because they knew it would be a quick second stage if she waited, being that it was her third baby. And that it was, Catherine pushed mightily 3 times and born was her baby, Theresa. It was so fast that the doctors didn't even have time to get the birth kit ready. I am pretty sure the doctors had never seen someone push quite like Catherine, she was a pro! Ron cheered Catherine on from behind the curtain, while Auntie Vai and I did so by her side. Everyone but Catherine was surprised when she pushed her baby out so quickly. Once she started, she couldn't stop. Theresa was born 7 pounds, 11 ounces, at 4:16 p.m. on May 4, 2008. What Catherine thought would be a short labor and delivery turned into a long labor, for her, and a very short delivery. She remained in good spirits through the entire journey, staying positive even when she felt impatient and frustrated. Baby Theresa was born perfectly healthy, bringing Mom and Dad smiles of bliss. It was an adventurous day, one that was filled with patience and perseverance and ended in a bundle joy.