As a doula, I am always prepared to support the momma in labor—that’s to be expected.
What I didn’t expect, though, was what was about to unfold. And I will never forget it.
The birthing room was set up beautifully. The bathroom glowed softly with candlelight, and the birth tub seemed to beckon with warm anticipation. From the very beginning, it felt like we were being surrounded and guided by angels.
As labor progressed, she swayed gently in her partner’s arms and moved intuitively between positions—sometimes squatting with the birth sling, other times rocking with grace. She listened deeply to her body. I attended to her with soft back rubs, gentle massages, or firm hip squeezes, depending on what she needed in the moment.
Every now and then, her firstborn would peek in to check on her. She would lovingly shift her attention, giving her toddler a little tour of the birthing space—explaining what each item was for. Mothers are so incredible. She was nurturing the child outside her womb while simultaneously preparing to welcome another miracle into the world.
Our midwife Meaghan checked in occasionally, her calm presence a constant source of strength. The room was dimly lit, peaceful, and filled with quiet joy and anticipation.
Then the moment came: Mama stepped into the tub to begin pushing.
To our amazement, the baby was arriving in a frank breech position—butt first!
The birth gave me chills. It was absolutely flawless, even though it was so rare.
This courageous mama had made a bold decision at 36 weeks to switch from OB care to midwifery care. It was a brave move—but one that honored her vision. Her dream had always been to have a water birth, and that dream came true.
Baby arrived perfectly healthy. Mama was glowing and strong.
Had she remained with her OB, this likely would’ve been an automatic C-section. But here she was, beaming with joy, holding her newborn in the warm water, with her husband’s arms wrapped around her. It all felt so serendipitous.
I am still in awe of her strength and determination—and deeply grateful for the sacred, grounded presence that Meaghan brought to the birth.
It was a true gift to witness. One I’ll never forget.
