Shayla

Giving birth was one of the most powerful experiences of my life. If I could share one piece of advice with any mama preparing for birth, it would be this — trust yourself, trust your body, and stay open-minded through the journey.

I feel incredibly grateful to have birthed our baby girl unmedicated, something I truly believe was supported by the guidance and knowledge I gained from Hapu Wānanga. I didn’t have a strict birth plan or expectations, just a few preferences that helped me stay calm, positive, and open to whatever the experience would bring.

My waters broke around 6:30am and I remember feeling a quiet excitement knowing the day had finally come. After a warm shower at home to ground myself, we met my midwife at the hospital around 11am thinking our pēpi might be breech. Instead, we discovered she was already low and ready — and I was already 7cm dilated.

From that moment on my focus was breathing, moving, and trusting my body. The water, soft lighting, music, and the support of my partner and midwife helped create a calm and safe space for labour to unfold naturally.

Eight powerful hours later, after following my body through each wave of labour, we finally met our beautiful baby girl, Marnie. The moment we saw her face was filled with so much strength, love, and the most incredible feeling of finally meeting the little soul we had been waiting for.

One thing I wish I had known more about was the hours after birth. The rush of adrenaline can feel surreal, and it’s such an important time to stay supported and surrounded by whānau while you process the incredible thing your body has just done.

This experience reminded me just how powerful our bodies truly are. Birth can be unpredictable, but it can also be one of the most empowering and beautiful moments of your life. And when you finally look down and meet your pēpi, every moment is worth it

Shayla McDougall