The Birth of Ezra James

Meet Kaila & Clay! 

Tell us about your family: 
My husband and I have been married for 3 years. We have one cat named Sophie. This is our first baby. We are so excited to make the transition to parents. We live in a small town about an hour south of Wichita. My husband Clay does maintenance at Elk Valley Packing in Wellington. I work as a housekeeper and will be a SAHM when the baby is born.

Estimated due month: April

Gender: Boy

What are you wanting for your birth?
I want a birth that ends with a healthy baby and mom. I am aiming for a peaceful med-free water birth (home birth with a midwife) with little to no interventions. That would be my ideal birth.

​Why did you hire a doula? 
I hired a doula because in my research they can help reduce pain, and labor time, leading to better birth outcomes. I also really like that I will have someone to, not only help me, but help direct my husband to help me during the labor and delivery. As a first time mom I don't really know what to expect, the peace of mind from having doula support makes me much more at peace.

What details would you like to share about your birth?
My birth didn't quite go how I expected. It started at the (midwife's) birth suite and ended in a hospital transfer because of the babies heart rate and position. I wanted a natural birth out of hospital but I'm really thankful for the hospital OB and nurses. They were very nice. My midwives and doula helped me so much to help me find my inner strength. In the end my baby and I are healthy and happy.

What surprised you the most?
Giving birth was harder than I ever imagined. I was surprised at how strong I was.

What was your favorite comfort measure? I had worship music playing during my labor at the birth suite and that definitely helped me stay centered. The water also helped with the contractions. Peppermint essential oil was essential in helping me get through the nausea waves.

How did your doula help you and would you use one again?
My doula helped me tremendously. She helped me breath and keep my voice tone low. She prayed for me and it really helped. She has a great mother like spirit which reminded me of my own mom who wanted to be at the birth but couldn't. Her presence is very calming. I would definitely use a doula again.

What advice would you give other moms planning a natural birth?
Have a plan, but be ready when that plan goes out the window. And hire a doula!