All mamas know that childbirth is not for sissies—and for those mamas strong enough to attempt it without the aid of pain-reducing drugs? I SALUTE YOU! Because I am not THAT tough. Natalie Bancoft of Spokane Valley, Washington, however, IS that tough. As she planned for a natural home birth of her third child, she had a family-centered birth in mind, wanting not just her husband but her two older kids to be present with the midwives as well.
Natalie’s birth photographer, Laura Fifield was also on hand to document the birth. Fifield says the home environment was inviting and relaxing, with candles and calm music contributing to the atmosphere. Natalie was calm throughout her labor, and finally settled in the birthing pool. The family did not know the gender of the child, and midwives speculated that he would be a big baby—above the average 7.5-lb newborn. But NO ONE was prepared for truly how large this kiddo would be, and this photo Fifield snapped of the proud—and surprised mama moments after birth says it ALL! Baby Simon weighed in at 11 lbs, 2 oz.! Just a SMIDGE above average.
Photo: Laura Fifield Photography
Not only was Natalie surprised at her child’s 11-lb., 2 oz. girth (look at those ROLLS on his back!), she was also surprised to learn that he was a boy, the family’s second son.
Fifield noted on her blog post about the birth that “With no interventions, internal exams and no tearing she safely delivered their 11lb 2oz baby home at home.” No tearing from a baby THAT big? Wow, that is truly impressive!
