Izzie & Hudson

1st Baby

After an early miscarriage in my first pregnancy, I felt understandably anxious the next time around and unfortunately had nausea for the entire nine months. Dulcie’s Monday night yoga quickly became the highlight of my week – a space where I felt safe to be vulnerable and learned so much about birth and beyond.

Despite a bit of a rollercoaster pregnancy, I couldn’t have asked for a better birth. My waters broke naturally at home 2.5 weeks early and I laboured there using the hypnobirthing breathing techniques I’d learned in class before heading to the Haven Wing at Poole Maternity. I was convinced I was much further along but was only 2cm dilated – thankfully my cervix was favourable so they didn’t send me home! I had some pethidine early on, which really helped me stay calm and relaxed as labour progressed.

After only a couple of hours in hospital I felt ready to push, and 45 minutes later – with some gas and air – our gorgeous boy Hudson arrived.

The sickness I’d had for nine months disappeared instantly and my husband joked I’d had a personality transplant. Apart from a small tear (expertly managed by the amazing midwives) I felt remarkably well and was on cloud nine for weeks.

I’m so grateful to Dulcie and the lovely friends I met through her classes for the support, knowledge and space she created during such a special time. I truly can’t recommend her enough. If you’re pregnant and able to attend one of her classes, retreats or courses – just do it!