After a healthy pregnancy and a lot of birth preparation, Saskia went into spontaneous labor after weeks of intermittent prodromal labor and contractions. She labored at home with her supportive partner using breathing and coping skills. Upon arrival at the hospital after 24 hours of labor, she was 3cm dilated and continued to labor with the support of her husband and a doula. After her water broke, she tried IV pain medication and nitrous oxide before making an informed choice to receive the epidural. Although she planned for an epidural-free birth, receiving the epidural was ultimately an empowering choice for her and allowed for a peaceful birth. After just a few more hours, she was fully dilated and pushed for an hour before meeting her daughter.
Saskia Bolger
Saskia is a 29 year old first time mom and lives with her husband, daughter, and dog in Pennsylvania. She is a social worker, dog lover, runner, and triathlete. Leave a comment for Saskia here and she will respond!
Resources
Needed
Today’s episode is sponsored by Needed. Needed is the leading women’s health supplement brand recommended by nutritionally-trained practitioners. While most perinatal supplements include the bare minimum of the nutrients needed during pregnancy, Needed’s products are based on the latest clinical research and in-practice experience of nearly 6000 practitioners. Needed has all your needs covered, from your prenatal vitamin to pregnancy-specific Pre/ and Probiotics, to egg quality support, sleep, stress, immune and hydration support, as well as your protein needs for blood sugar balance and postpartum healing. Needed’s Complete Plan delivers unparalleled nourishment for every phase — whether you’re trying to conceive, pregnant, or postpartum! Instead of having to pair 6 different products together to meet your needs, I love that Needed has simplified things by bundling together four core products you need, in an easy and flexible monthly plan. Use code BIRTHHOUR for 20% off including on monthly plans at thisisneeded.com.