THE BIRTH OF NOAH

“I always knew I was born to give birth.”

As I walked towards the check-in desk of Martha Jefferson Hospital, I was greeted with “she’s at 8cm” and a green wristband, granting me access to Lauren’s labor & delivery room. Grateful for the relationships I’ve cultivated at MJH which allowed me to hurry through check-in, I speedily joined Lauren and Justin as transition set in. I was excited, yet a touch surprised, to see Lauren so deep within labor. Only a few hours earlier, she hadn’t been feeling much of anything and, in fact, felt well enough to attend a child’s birthday party. Yet, when active labor set in, it came on quickly and in full force.

When I entered the labor room, Lauren was kneeling on the bed powerfully working through a contraction. Justin quietly stood next to her, placing his hands on her back tenderly, gently encouraging her. His eyes twinkled and a grin of excitement passed over his face as we embraced in a quick “hello” hug. These first time parents had chosen me to support them as their doula and birth photographer, so after getting a quick read on Lauren, I pulled out my camera and began documenting what would be the relatively quick arrival of their son.

Throughout bouts of nausea and the intensity of contractions, Lauren remained focused and strong. Despite having some less-than-comfortable positions being recommended to her, Lauren channeled her energy into shifting her stance into the suggested poses which were to help her little boy descend. During each movement, through each surge, Justin was there peacefully supporting his wife, whispering encouraging words.

I watched in awe of Lauren’s radiance and beauty as she powered through transition. Within two short hours, Noah Andrew was born into his mama’s arms. Born with a head full of silky hair and the most perfect of little lips, sweet Noah was immediately wrapped in love by his adoring parents.

“I always knew I was born to give birth.”

Lauren shared this conviction with me several times before and after delivery. She knew. She trusted. She was.