My labor and delivery experience this time around was probably the hardest, but most memorable, experience of childbirth I have.  I was admitted on a Wednesday for induction due to cholestasis. The only cure for this liver condition is to deliver.  I had been in labor and delivery for 2 days with failed inductions.
    
Then, this nurse came in and talked with me about what I wanted my birth plan to be.  She explained everything she would help me do and explained everything throughout her assessment, which helped keep me calm.  Once the doctor came in that morning and told me the best thing was to break my water to get things going, this nurse reassured me this had not changed what she and I had discussed.
    
I had contractions since Wednesday with no progress. However, once my water was broken the contractions were much stronger. This nurse stayed with me the entire time I was in active labor, minus a quick 5-minute bathroom break.  That meant so much to me when I realized she had put me first, even before herself, in that aspect.     
    
This nurse helped me into many different positions to progress my labor, to help get me through the pain of the contractions, and to make sure my baby was turned in the correct position for delivery.  She instructed my sister and my best friend who were with me in the delivery room on what they could do to help and where to apply counter pressure when I had a contraction.
    
My body began reflex, pushing on its own!  I dilated rapidly, and this nurse ended up delivering my baby before the doctor arrived!  Her willingness and commitment to provide me with the best experience and ensure a safe delivery for my baby was amazing.  Because of this nurse and her knowledge, commitment, and compassion, even after two cycles of cervidil and oxytocin, which they say make contractions hurt worse, I was still able to safely deliver my baby with no epidural and no pain medications at all!