I went into labor and I was very nervous. This was my second pregnancy, so I didn't have the normal first-time mom jitters. With my first pregnancy, I had an unexpected C-section and for this pregnancy, I was going to attempt a VBAC. I was nervous because I didn't know how my delivery would go but throughout my pregnancy, the one aspect that comforted me was knowing that my doctor made me a continuity patient of his and he agreed to come in whenever I went into labor to deliver.
The moment my husband and I entered the labor and delivery floor we were greeted by Natalie Henning who would end up being my night nurse for the two nights I was in the hospital. I was hoping my provider would be able to come in for my delivery. Unfortunately, when she called to tell him I was in labor they were unable to come.
When Natalie informed me that my doctor wasn't able to come, I understood but was crushed, disappointed, and became very tearful. Seeing how upset I was Natalie was very supportive and encouraging. She reassured me that everything would be ok. I told Natalie of my hopes to have a VBAC, she listened and did everything she could to help me achieve my goal. Even though there were other moms in labor, Natalie was so attentive to me. Making sure I felt ok, that I didn't need anything, all my questions/concerns were answered and was very engaging. She took the time to get to know me as a person and not just "another patient." Every time she left the room, she would say something positive or reassuring.
When it came time to push Natalie was right there by my side being so supportive. I was so anxious pushing because with my first baby I pushed for four hours and ended up with a C-section. I was scared that that was the way this was going to go. Thankfully, I was able to only push for 21 minutes before my daughter was born. I honestly feel that Natalie was a big reason why I was able to have a successful VBAC. She listened to my desire for a VBAC, made sure I used the peanut ball to open my hips, and encouraged me the moment I stepped onto the delivery floor. Every step of my labor and delivery Natalie was there encouraging, cheering me on, saying supportive and positive comments and making me feel that everything was going to be okay.
Natalie exudes compassion, care, and is a true asset to not only the labor and delivery floor but Monroe Clinic. When I think back on my daughter's birth, I feel so very lucky and grateful that I had Natalie as my nurse.