When I worked with Cesca and her husband Ed last year, I knew the chances of them having a positive experience were highly likely. After sadly going through a miscarriage prior to this pregnancy, Cesca was more determined than ever to be present, make informed choices and work with her body. Her experience of giving birth in her local hospital was just that - one which she felt powerful and positive.

We also explore her decision to decline augmentation of labour after her waters went and labour didn't start immediately, as well as how she handled a 'long' early labour phase. Only two weeks into her early motherhood journey, Cesca sadly lost her dad suddenly and this sent her world into unchartered territory. In this podcast episode, she open-heartedly shares how breastfeeding was a huge source of comfort as she navigated her baby blues, postpartum recovery and those early days of grief.

I'm very grateful that she (and Ed, indirectly) has been so open in sharing her experience and the ways in which antenatal preparation and hypnobirthing helped her achieve an experience which she feels positive about.

It's just how powerful working with your body and trusting your instincts can be! This story is also a testament to how it is possible to have a positive experience within the hospital environment, and how knowledge can help you feel calm and in control during moments of perceived 'emergency'. Cesca also felt the support she received from her caregivers was really positive, how her choices were respected, and this again may be of comfort to those who are choosing to have a hospital birth.

Thanks again to Ed and Cesca for giving me the trust to share their story with the wider world.

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