I am 28 and have four children. My first child was born in 2003. I had an emergency Cesarean section due to fetal distress. My second child, born in 2005, was a VBAC. The doctor on call did not believe in intervening in the birthing process unless necessary. He was sunny-side up, also known as in posterior position. He was difficult to birth because of his positioning but he was delivered successfully.

My third child was a repeat C-section in 2006. The C-section was not necessary and can be attributed to a physician that was inclined to perform the surgery. I lacked knowledge in birthing and did not realize that any medical intervention during labor should be avoided if possible.

The doctor broke my water immediately. I had been in active labor for an hour and had only been in the hospital for about 15 minutes. I was offered an epidural and I took it. The epidural counteracted with the natural dilation process and slowed my contractions. The doctor then broke my water immediately to speed my labor.

The baby's heart rate slowed a bit and she rushed me in for a C-section. She did not give me oxygen or allow the baby to respond to the abrupt change in position. Breaking my water had thrust the baby's head into the birth canal, which commonly results in a moment of distress. The doctor was inclined to perform C-sections and I had not realized the influence that would have on my likelihood to have a repeat C-section.

My fourth child was born in 2008. He was my first natural vaginal birth. I was given the opportunity by a wonderful midwife, Vicki M., to deliver naturally. I could not find a doctor that would allow a VBAC.

I contacted Vicki a week before my due date. She welcomed me with open arms. She was confident that I was capable of a successful VBAC, despite my two C-sections. She was heaven sent.

I had the most amazing experience of my life. Natural birth is a beautiful journey that connects a woman to her inner strength and spiritual core. I would have birthed naturally with all four children having had the knowledge that I have now. I am thankful that I was given the opportunity and spiritual guidance to birth naturally.