When my mother-in-law insisted on being part of my home birth, I had a strange feeling about it. Something felt off every time she slipped out of the room, and when I finally heard unsettling voices outside, I couldn’t believe my eyes.
From the moment I told Josh that I wanted a home birth, his excitement was clear. But it was nothing compared to his mother, Elizabeth’s reaction. You would’ve thought we’d given her the greatest gift of all time.
“Oh, Nancy! This is wonderful!” Elizabeth gushed, practically vibrating with enthusiasm. “I absolutely must be there to help. I can do anything you need!”
I exchanged a glance with Josh. His raised eyebrows told me he wasn’t going to intervene.
“I’m not sure, Elizabeth,” I said cautiously. “Home births are intense, and I might need quiet.”
Elizabeth waved my hesitation away. “Oh, don’t worry! I’ve been through it myself. I’ll be the best support you could ask for.”
Reluctantly, I agreed, and her joy was instant. “You won’t regret this,” she squealed, hugging me tightly.
I wasn’t so sure.
When the day arrived, my midwife, Rosie, was setting up as Elizabeth made her grand entrance, arms full of bags.
“I’m here!” she announced, as though we could have possibly missed her. “Where do you need me?”
A contraction hit, and I could barely catch my breath. “Just put your things down,” I gasped, too focused on the pain to deal with her energy.
As I rode out the wave of pain, I noticed Elizabeth pacing, her eyes darting around nervously. Something wasn’t right.
“You okay?” I asked, frowning.
“Oh, yes! You’re doing great! Keep going, dear!” she replied, before slipping out of the room again, muttering something about water.
Josh leaned in, concerned. “Should I talk to her?”
I shook my head. “No, it’s fine. She’s probably just nervous.”
But as labor progressed, Elizabeth’s odd behavior escalated. She’d pop in and out of the room, growing more flustered with each visit. During one intense contraction, I noticed a strange sound.
“Josh, do you hear that?” I asked, panting.