The Birth Hour - A Birth Story Podcast 980| Canadian Homebirth to Hospital Transfer After Contractions Stalled During Pushing Phase - Margaret Smith
May 20, 2025
Margaret Smith, a Canadian mother and childcare professional, shares her surprising journey from a planned home birth to an unexpected hospital transfer due to stalled contractions. She discusses the emotional rollercoaster of labor and the importance of community support during her experience. After the transfer, Margaret navigates early postpartum challenges, including milk supply issues, all while emphasizing the resilience required in motherhood. Her candid reflections shed light on the complexities of childbirth and the invaluable role of professional care.
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Preparing Home Birth in Caslow
- Margaret prepared for a home birth in Caslow, British Columbia, with a supportive midwife and birth team including sisters and a friend.
- She had a smooth pregnancy and attended community support programs, embracing a natural birth approach with loved ones.
Labor Progresses at Home
- Labor began after two cervical sweeps and was mild at first, progressively intensifying at home with help from her family.
- She used a birth tub and various labor positions, feeling fully supported throughout the intense but slow labor.
Pushing Phase and Hospital Transfer
- After around two hours of pushing, contractions slowed and baby’s head was visible but stalled due to positioning.
- Midwives advised hospital transfer for more support, which Margaret felt very sad about despite having prepared for this possibility.
