Madeleine's Birth Story

September 25th 2007

On Tuesday morning, at (35 weeks, 6 days pregnant) before she went to work, McKenzie had the sensation that maybe her bag of waters had broken. She made the decision to just keep an eye on things and continued on with her day. As time went on, she became more concerned that she may be leaking amniotic fluid, so she called her doula, Amy, to get her opinion. Amy suggested that she contact her doctor and get an opinion from them, but also told McKenzie that everything was probably fine and not to worry. McKenzie trusted her instincts and despite speaking to someone at her doctor’s office who did not think that her water had broken, insisted that she get checked, so she and her husband went to Labor and Delivery. Once she had checked in, it was determined that McKenzie was correct, her bag of waters was ruptured and her baby was going to be born that day. She was feeling some mild contractions at that point. After a vaginal exam, her doctor wasn’t sure if the baby was head down, so an ultrasound was performed and McKenzie and Treven discovered that their baby girl was in a breech position. She would need to be delivered by cesarean section. The surgery was scheduled for 9:00 p.m., as McKenzie had eaten on the way to the hospital (wanting to keep up her strength for impending labor).

Despite the change of plans, McKenzie and Treven maintained such a positive attitude, focusing on getting to meet their healthy baby. McKenzie’s mother arrived at the hospital around 7:00 p.m. and was soon followed by McKenzie’s father, step-mother and then her brother. The grandparents were so excited for the birth of their granddaughter, although a little nervous about what their daughter may have to go through. All during this time, the baby’s heart rate was monitored with an external fetal monitor, and her she sounded very healthy and active. At 8:00 p.m. the anesthesiologist consulted with McKenzie about the details of her surgery. Twenty minutes later, family left McKenzie and Treven for the waiting room, allowing the couple some alone time to reflect on their impending parenthood before the surgery.

At 8:30 Treven’s mother and brother arrived and were able to go back and quickly wish the parents luck before they also came to the waiting room to wait it out. Everyone anxiously awaited any news and were watching the doors for Treven’s face. At 10:45, Treven finally came into the waiting room to let everyone know that Madeleine had been born at 9:24 p.m., was 6 pounds, 6 ounces, and 18 inches long. Baby was doing well and had been able to nurse and spend time with mom and dad very soon after delivery. Much cheering and hugging ensued. The grandparents (and doula) were invited back to see mom and baby in the recovery room. McKenzie looked so happy and proud, and despite her trembling arms, was able to cuddle little Madeleine to her with ease. She was a natural mother. Everyone gushed over the very adorable baby and took lots of pictures.

Although McKenzie didn’t get to have the exact childbirth experience she wanted, she was able to deliver a very healthy baby with the encouragement of her husband and loving family. I felt so honored to be able to support McKenzie and Treven at the birth of their daughter. It is something that I will always remember.