Pregnancy 1:
Lauren’s first labor began with irregular contractions that started in the evening and continued throughout the night. By morning, contractions had increased but she was advised to wait before heading to the hospital. After arriving late morning and receiving an epidural, labor stalled, ultimately resulting in a cesarean birth later that evening.
Pregnancy 2:
Her second pregnancy began with her water breaking at home, though only partially. Once admitted to the hospital, Lauren was supported by a physician who strongly advocated for VBAC, allowing her to successfully deliver vaginally with the help of an epidural.
Pregnancy 3:
At a routine 37-week appointment, an NST revealed that the baby was becoming stressed during contractions. Lauren was sent directly to the hospital for an induction, where Pitocin was started quickly and at a strong dose. After receiving an epidural and having her water broken, labor progressed rapidly, and her third baby was born shortly afterward.
Pregnancy 4:
Lauren’s fourth birth was an induction at 38 weeks with her husband, sister, and sister-in-law present for support. After about an hour of pushing, she delivered her fourth baby, surrounded by family.
Pregnancy 5 (Surrogacy):
Lauren’s fifth pregnancy was a gestational surrogacy for a couple unable to carry a child for medical reasons. Having only experienced medicated births before, this labor unfolded unexpectedly fast—lasting just over two hours total—and resulted in an unmedicated delivery. The baby was nearly born in the car but ultimately arrived in the emergency department of the hospital.
Lauren Edgerly Bio
Lauren is a mom of four and a gestational surrogate who has experienced five very different pregnancy journeys. With a background in healthcare and a heart for helping others, she values open conversations about birth, motherhood, and the realities behind each unique experience.
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