The birth of Amelia was a slow and calm labor. This mama labored on her own throughout early labor and called her team to come when things picked up. Upon getting to her home, I could tell she was so calm and collected.

Her supportive husband stuck by her side throughout the labor, and at times really struggled to stay awake and alert. This process can also be very taxing for the partner, not just the mother. They don't have the same hormones and running through them to keep them focused. They rely solely on adrenaline and energy, so it is important to make sure that they are also eating and drinking along with the mother. They both need rest when labor is calm and they both need to stay hydrated.

As labor progressed, mama was a rockstar! She listened to her body and moved about. Getting in and out of water, and making sure to get into positions that helped her body and baby moving down.

Her midwife, Nancy Pol (Emergence Midwifery) was incredibly patient to this first time mom's process. Rachelle, the doula, and midwife both switched off providing counter pressure, and hip squeezes to get her through the contractions and mama’s sister comforted and held her as they became increasingly difficult to manage on her own. So many women loved on this mama throughout and made her feel safe and comfortable.

When she got back into the water is became more clear that she was close to giving birth. She moved around to find the best position, and ultimately pushed her baby out in a squatted position in the tub.

Midwife quickly and carefully handed her her baby and immediately sat back to observe over and make sure that everyone was doing well. The birth couldn't have gone better.

It was amazing. First time mothers can birth their babies at home without medication. She prepared for this birth, and gave it her all.

…and that was the story of baby Amelia coming into the world.

Carey is an international award winning Birth Photographer, Videographer and Doula located in Phoenix, Arizona.

Serving all of Phoenix and major surrounding cities including Peoria, Surprise, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, & Gilbert Arizona. She is passionate about educating women, and empowering them to feel confident in their birth choices, and supported enough to birth how she sees fit.

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