The Birth of Ruby
February 9th, 2023 at St. Charles Family Birth Center
As Shelby began her labor, she experienced some inconsistent contractions— determined to find a good rhythm, she instinctively turned to movement. She discovered what worked best for her body— lots of squats, dancing and forward leaning, and even a walk outside. In between contractions, they had some Vietnamese take-out (That Pho looked SO GOOD!) She chose Misoprostol, an alternative to Pitocin, to help stimulate constant contractions. She utilized a variety of coping techniques, including the use of a tens unit, combs for acupressure, and rhythmic movements. These techniques empowered her, allowing her to navigate the intensity of labor with all her power. She started feeling pushy, and shortly after Ruby was born into the world.
“Hi baby!”
“Happy Birthday!”
She was finally able to rest. After her golden hour skin-to skin with mom— Ruby was weighed, measured and spent some skin-to-skin with her Dad.
It was a birth that fulfilled so many of her birth desires, a testament to the incredible strength and determination shared by this family.
