Why She Chose an Unmedicated Water Birth After a C-Section

For many expectant mothers, childbirth plans can evolve dramatically from one pregnancy to the next. For Katelyn, her third pregnancy marked a journey culminating in an unmedicated water birth at home.

Deciding on an Unmedicated Water Birth

Katelyn, a mother of three, initially opted for a hospital birth with an epidural during her first pregnancy but required a C-section due to slow dilation and prolonged pushing without progression. Her second birth was a successful unmedicated VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), which encouraged her to consider a home water birth for her third child.

“My sister-in-law actually had just given birth at home, delivering a breeched baby successfully. That inspired me and made me feel like, if she can do it, I can too,” says Katelyn.

Preparing for a Home Birth

Preparation was key. Katelyn emphasizes, “Finding a knowledgeable midwife and taking comprehensive courses like Mighty Mama Movement made all the difference.”

She also specifically asked her midwife important questions such as, “What's your protocol if I hemorrhage?” and “What's your protocol if the cord is wrapped around the baby's neck?” She extensively researched optimal labor positions and strategies for managing labor pain naturally.

Regular exercise and healthy eating played significant roles. Katelyn, who taught fitness classes throughout her pregnancy, viewed childbirth as a physical event she had to train for.

“I ran my first half marathon at 25 weeks pregnant,” she shares, highlighting her commitment. She adds that maintaining consistent exercise, though slightly less intense than her previous pregnancies, was crucial in preparing her body.

Experiencing Labor and Birth at Home

Labor began gently in the evening, allowing Katelyn to rest intermittently. However, contractions intensified dramatically by morning.

“It felt so good—less painful, with significantly reduced pressure."

Recalling her symptoms, she says, “I knew it was getting serious when I needed my husband to give counter pressure to manage the contractions. Sitting on the toilet helped significantly—there’s a reason it’s called the dilation station.”

As contractions quickened, Katelyn transitioned to a birthing tub in her baby's nursery, immediately feeling relief. “It felt so good—less painful, with significantly reduced pressure,” she notes. This comfort, paired with familiar surroundings, helped her stay relaxed.

The Birth Experience

Katelyn experienced the powerful "fetal ejection reflex"—her body naturally pushing the baby out without forceful straining.

“My body just started pushing on its own. It was incredible,” she recalls. With the midwife arriving just moments before birth, Katelyn felt empowered and confident. “Honestly, I felt ready even if she hadn't made it. My body knew exactly what to do.”

Her daughter, Zinnia Belle, arrived safely into the warm water, an experience Katelyn describes as surreal and empowering.

Advice for Expectant Mothers Considering Home Birth

Katelyn stresses the importance of advocating for yourself and being educated about birth options. “Find a provider who aligns with your wishes and trust your instincts. Don’t be afraid to change your mind about who’s present or what you need during labor,” she advises.

 “Women are so amazing—the body is capable of incredible things. Trust it.”

She also emphasizes listening to your body. “Women are so amazing—the body is capable of incredible things. Trust it.”

Through her journey, Katelyn exemplifies how preparation, support, and self-trust can lead to a beautiful, empowering birthing experience at home.