A Spring Waterbirth: Welcoming Baby Lila

Old Friends, New Baby

Jess, Joey, and little Nora became one of my regular Friday afternoon favorites. They were so fun to talk to. It felt like old friends who just happened to be tracking how a new little baby was growing and preparing for a waterbirth. When the day came, she was coping so well I had to ask if I could come be with her. With some gentle tucks and side lying on the couch her labor progressed with strength and love. Her sister taking care of Nora, her hubby preparing the pool and making sure she was well cared for. Outside was the most beautiful spring day with the chickens and a guinea hen scritch scratching in the dust. Inside was a mama welcoming each wave with deep breaths and open hands.

Laboring Along

You could see the intensity only by how her breath would catch at times but then her breath would find its rhythm again and you could see her fully relax once more. Kiana and I helped her to switch sides she was laying on and went outside for a few minutes to soak in the sunshine. I felt anxious and turned back to the house. Kiana and I found her saying it felt like the last contraction might have been pushy.

Baby Time

The next contraction was louder than I had heard her and I remember telling her if she wanted her water birth it was time… She got in the pool soon after and just 26 minutes later this beautiful little girl emerged, and mama scooped her up into her arms! I think my favorite part was how baby Lila was welcomed, the gentle postpartum time, soaking in the tub, getting to meet her sister and auntie who had come in from exploring, daddy watching over her and her mama and his obvious awe, visiting with their doula Kateri as we cleaned up from the birth and got Jess comfortable on the couch for a little while, steaks Joey made for all of us that were perfection, and finally tucking mom and baby into bed.

As Jess said, “It was a birth I wish everyone could have!” And I couldn’t agree more.

Watch this beautiful story here.

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Every birth has its own rhythm, its own challenges, and its own quiet moments of courage and love. At Heart Strings Birth Services, we believe birth is more than a medical event - it is a sacred unfolding, lovingly supported and deeply personal. These stories are shared with permission to honor the families who trusted us with their care and to encourage others as they walk their own birth journeys.

This blog post originated from @heartstringsbirthservices - April 27th 2026