Jorgen Ilagan

"I only pushed for 12 minutes. I was so proud of myself!” 

I remember Charlotte asking me during the consults “what’s your birth plan?” and I couldn’t answer. Honestly, I didn't have anything in mind at that time other than I want to deliver the baby safely and I don’t want to die. As a first time mum, I didn't have any idea what to do nor what will happen. We ended up deciding to homebirth because I found it a more convenient and peaceful option. I felt like I could do it naturally without hospital help and I wanted it unmedicated.

However, your birth plan sometimes doesn’t go to plan! My waters broke early at 36 weeks. I was in denial because I was not prepared. I kept telling myself that it might just be pee that I can’t control, until it happened three times. It was like a flush of water that kept on coming out of me. I told Charlotte and she did a test. It turns out it was indeed my water. I soon started contracting. I have a high pain tolerance, but I felt like it was happening quickly. I had seen in movies that sometimes contractions happen a long time before the actual birth, but it wasn't long until I felt pressure down there and I felt the urge to push already. I knew from that moment that IT’S GO TIME! My partner was rushing to call the triage line and I was advised to head to the hospital to meet Charlotte there.

I was anxious that there was a change in plans but was happy that we were surrounded by a supportive team. Charlotte's calmness during labour made me feel at ease that it'll be okay at 36 weeks. I definitely couldn't have done it without her! In the end I only pushed for 12 minutes. I was so proud of myself! Thankyou <3

Birth story by Jorgen Ilagan.