This week's Birth Story Saturday comes from the lovely A, who has so kindly shared her experience of an induction in hospital. We often hear stories that paint induction as something to fear, clinical, rushed, or overwhelming. But A’s story is a beautiful reminder that even within a hospital setting, with medical support, birth can still feel calm, empowering, and deeply personal. A made informed choices, felt truly listened to, and was supported every step of the way by a compassionate team who respected her preferences. Thank you so much, A, for sharing your experience, it’s stories like yours that help other women feel less alone and more confident in their own journey
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I always imagined going into labour naturally, at home with candles lit and my favourite music playing. But as my due date came and went, and my baby seemed quite comfy staying put, the conversation around induction began.
At first, I felt nervous. I’d heard a lot of stories about induction being long, overwhelming, and very clinical. But after speaking with my midwife and using everything I’d learnt through my hypnobirthing course, I realised I still had choices. This could still be my birth.
I decided to go ahead with the induction at 41+4, and from the moment we arrived at the hospital, I felt like the team truly saw me. They read my birth preferences without judgement, asked questions, and made space for what mattered to me.
We started with a pessary, and my partner and I were encouraged to walk around, use the birth ball, and rest as much as we could. The staff were brilliant, they didn’t rush anything, checked in regularly, and kept everything calm.
When things started to pick up, I used my breathing techniques, affirmations, and some gentle massage from my partner. I felt safe and supported, which made all the difference. Even when things needed to be adjusted, like when my waters were broken to help things along, everything was explained with kindness and care.
I ended up asking for gas and air, and later a bit of help with an epidural, which felt like the right decision for me at the time. And at no point did I feel like I’d let myself down or ‘gone off plan’. I felt in control, informed, and respected.
Our baby arrived just before sunrise, surrounded by a team who cheered us on with genuine joy. I’ll never forget how the midwife looked at me and said, “You did that. You brought your baby here.”
Looking back, what I feared would be a cold and clinical experience turned out to be incredibly warm, human, and empowering.
To anyone planning or facing an induction, know that it can be positive. You can feel heard. You can feel strong. This was my birth, and I’m proud of every part of it.
Want to learn more about how you can feel in control and confident during birth, even if things go off plan? Get in touch to book a no obligation discovery call.