Birth Story

The story of my birth experience began early in my pregnancy, as dreams and expectations took shape. My greatest fear was the Australian public health system, known for its less compassionate approach, particularly during childbirth. The best decision we made was to hire a doula, Tati, who provided reassurance from our very first conversation.

 

My pregnancy was smooth until week 34, when an ultrasound revealed that Isabella was below the 10th percentile, weighing only 1.9 kg. According to guidelines, babies below this percentile should be delivered between 36 and 37 weeks. We monitored her growth weekly, and concerns about growth restriction caused anxiety as I had envisioned a natural water birth. With Tati’s prenatal classes, we realized Isabella was just a small baby, with no signs of placental failure.

 

At 35 weeks, I began experiencing severe itching in my hands and feet. Tests for cholestasis were negative, but the symptoms persisted. Doctors prescribed Phenergan, which altered Isabella’s movements and increased our concerns. After days of uncertainty and frequent consultations, another doctor suggested Restavit, which helped partially. During this period, Tati, even while on vacation, supported us, and we were also embraced by Thabata, her backup doula, who provided unconditional care and guidance.

 

Between 36 and 37 weeks, we faced medical pressure to induce labor due to mentioned risks such as stillbirth and brain injury. Using the BRAIN technique learned from Tati, we engaged in informed discussions with doctors. While both my health and Isabella's were stable, the prospect of a natural birth seemed to diminish, as the limit was set at 39 weeks.

I did everything possible to encourage natural labor: eating dates, having massages, and doing exercises. We were not against induction or a C-section, but we wanted labor to start naturally, benefiting both Isabella and my recovery. Our support network, including Tati, Thabata, and my family, was crucial.

 

At 37 weeks, an exam showed Isabella had dropped to the 2.1 percentile with no weight gain. Induction was scheduled for October 29. Before this, membrane sweep attempts were made, with some success on Sunday, as my mucus plug began to dislodge, signaling my body was responding.

 

On the 29th, I was admitted to the hospital and underwent a balloon induction procedure. The night was challenging, but by 5:30 a.m., the balloon fell out, indicating progress. At 6:30 a.m., Tati arrived, bringing calm and reassurance. After exercises and attempts to stimulate labor naturally, we returned to the hospital by 12:30 p.m., where contractions began in the shower, marking an intense and transformative moment.

 

By 6:00 p.m., contractions became more intense, and oxytocin was necessary. Shortly after, Thabata joined us, increasing emotional and physical support. With escalating pain, the medical team observed that Isabella was in fetal distress, and my husband Nando made the decision to proceed with an emergency C-section.

 

Shortly afterward, at 8:30 p.m., Isabella was born, weighing 2.36 kg and measuring 50 cm. She was the greatest gift of our lives, the result of a journey marked by challenges, love, and resilience. I am eternally grateful to Tati and Thabata, whose dedication and care transformed moments of uncertainty into an empowering and nurturing experience.

 

I wholeheartedly recommend these incredible professionals, whose love and humanity helped us navigate one of the most special moments of our lives.

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Juliana Higashi.