Podcast Episode #258
Birth story – positive induction with Kelsey [vaginal birth with forceps]
When you hear the words “forceps birth,” you might think of fear, pain, or a negative experience. But in today’s episode, you’ll hear a very different story.
I chat with Kelsey, a first-time mum and past FitNest Mama member from Canada, who shares her positive forceps birth story. From an unexpected induction to using different pain relief strategies, Kelsey’s journey is proof that birth can still feel calm, empowering, and beautiful—even when it doesn’t go to plan.
In this episode, we discuss:
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Kelsey’s vaginal birth story with forceps and how she stayed calm
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Her experience with a cervical induction at 41+5 weeks
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Pain management strategies she used, including:
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Breathing techniques
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The shower
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An epidural
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A comb in the car
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Why clear communication with her care team made all the difference
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How FitNest Mama supported her safe and confident postpartum recovery
This is a reassuring, real-life reminder that no matter the path, birth can be a positive experience.
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In this article you'll find tips to:
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Navigate an induction of birth with confidence and preparation.
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Use breathing techniques to stay calm and manage contractions.
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Harness simple comfort tools like a warm shower or even a comb in the car for natural pain relief.
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Decide when an epidural might be the right choice for you.
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Stay calm and positive when birth takes an unexpected turn.
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Communicate effectively with your birth team to feel supported and informed.
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Prepare for a vaginal birth with forceps and understand it can still be a positive experience.
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Focus on postpartum recovery with safe, guided exercise for your pelvic floor.
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Give yourself grace in the early weeks and take a proactive approach to healing.
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Reframe expectations and know that even if your birth plan changes, you can still feel empowered.
So often, when we hear the words “forceps birth,” fear and uncertainty can creep in. In this podcast episode, I talk with Kelsey, a past member of the FitNest Mama program, who shares her beautiful forceps birth story.
As a first-time mum, Kelsey had hoped for a natural, unmedicated birth, but when things took a different turn, she found strength in her preparation, her support team, and her ability to adapt. Her story shows that even with interventions such as induction, epidural, or forceps, birth can still be calm, respectful, and empowering.
This conversation is filled with valuable insights for mums-to-be and new mums alike. From coping with an induction of birth, to trying out different pain relief strategies, to embracing recovery afterwards, Kelsey’s journey is a reassuring reminder that positive outcomes are possible even when the path looks different to what you imagined.
Vaginal Birth Story with Forceps
At 41+5 weeks, Kelsey welcomed her daughter Kaya into the world. After labouring for several hours, her baby’s heart rate began to drop. The obstetrician explained her options clearly: an emergency caesarean or a vaginal birth with forceps.
Kelsey chose the latter. With the help of forceps, her baby was gently guided under the pelvis, after which she delivered Kaya herself. Healthy and safe, Kaya was placed straight onto Kelsey’s chest for skin-to-skin cuddles, a beautiful end to what became a positive and empowering vaginal birth story with forceps.
Induction of birth
Kelsey’s labour began with a cervical induction at 41 weeks and five days. Although she had initially hoped to go into labour naturally, she accepted the recommendation after learning about the small but increased risks of continuing beyond 42 weeks.
By late that night, contractions had begun. They grew stronger and more regular as the hours passed, marking the start of her active labour.
Pain Management Strategies for Forceps Birth
Like many mums, Kelsey had hoped to manage her labour without medication. But when her contractions intensified, she adapted her approach and used a variety of strategies:
Breathing Techniques
Hypnobirthing breathing techniques helped her stay relaxed and in control during the early stages of labour.
The Shower
Hot water provided remarkable relief, easing the intensity of contractions and helping her feel grounded.
The Epidural
Although not in her original plan, the epidural became a turning point. It allowed her to relax, remain present, and engage with her birth team during what became a pivotal stage of labour.
The Comb in the Car
On the drive to hospital, she gripped a comb in her hand—a simple acupressure technique that helped distract from contraction pain.
A Positive Experience
Kelsey describes her birth as a positive forceps birth story. While it looked very different to her birth plan, clear communication, trust in her team, and her hypnobirthing preparation helped her stay calm and confident when intervention was needed.
Her postpartum recovery was also supported by the FitNest Mama program. With guided postnatal exercises and pelvic floor awareness, she safely returned to cycling, yoga, and strength training—all without incontinence or prolapse symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Kelsey’s story is a wonderful reminder that birth doesn’t always go according to plan, but it can still be a positive, empowering experience. With preparation, flexibility, and support, mums can feel confident navigating whatever path their birth takes.
Her message to other mums-to-be: trust your body, allow for different possibilities, give yourself grace in recovery, and remember that the most important outcome is a healthy baby and a strong start to motherhood.
** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
Links
Free Register now: https://www.fitnestmama.com/pregnancyworkshop
Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist
Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts
Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts
Instagram @kathbaquie.physio
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