Choosing Home Birth: Cassie’s Story

For Cassie, an Army mum living in Ipswich with her partner, two young children (Astrid, 2.5, and Ziggy, 7 weeks), and two bonus kids (10 and 13), life is anything but quiet. But when it came to giving birth, she knew she wanted calm, control, and comfort. That’s why she chose a home birth.

The Water Birth Experience

Cassie describes her water birth as “the most amazing experience.” Being weight-free in the water gave her the relief she needed and helped her body progress naturally.

• The water acted as the best pain relief.

• Her pushing time was shorter.

• She had zero interventions.

She laboured in the shower until the pool was ready, then transferred to the birth pool where Ziggy was born. All the while, she was surrounded by trust. In her body, in her midwife, and in the process.

Why Home Felt Right

Being at home meant Cassie could relax. She wasn’t interrupted for constant checks. Her midwife simply monitored the baby’s heartbeat without disrupting her rhythm. She even had her daughter Astrid by her side, a memory that made the experience even more meaningful.

“I was so relaxed and didn’t get interrupted to be checked. My midwife just checked the baby’s heart rate around me without bothering me. I was able to have Astrid with me and be in the comfort of my own home.”

Advice for Other Mums Considering Home Birth

Cassie encourages other mums to explore it if it feels right for them.

“Do it! If you have full trust in your body and your midwife and want a no-intervention birth, then do it. It was so inspiring.”

Her message is simple: trust yourself. Home birth isn’t about proving strength, but about creating the environment where you feel most safe and supported.

The Postpartum Reality

While her birth was peaceful, postpartum brought its own challenges. Astrid, now a big sister, wanted to be held constantly. Cassie leaned on the Hackerlily HipSurfer to make that possible without pain.

The HipSurfer redistributed weight, eased her back strain, and allowed her to hold Astrid while still caring for Ziggy. It even supported breastfeeding on the move.

Why the HipSurfer Was a Lifesaver Post-Birth

• Gave Cassie comfort during recovery.

• Made holding both kids easier.

• Supported her breastfeeding journey with Ziggy.

• Allowed grandparents and her partner to bond comfortably too.

Cassie’s Parenting Hack

Her favourite tip? “Set it and forget it.” She wears the HipSurfer while cooking or walking to the park so her toddler can hop up and down without fuss. Simple, effective, and sanity-saving.

Final Thoughts

Cassie’s story is one of balance: the power of a calm home birth paired with the practicality of tools that lighten the postpartum load.

For mums considering their birthing options, her journey is proof that with the right support, whether it’s a trusted midwife or the HipSurfer on your hip, you can create an experience that feels strong, empowering, and uniquely yours.

FAQs

Q1: What are the benefits of a home water birth?
Warm water provides natural pain relief, relaxation, and often shortens labour, while the home environment offers comfort and familiarity.

Q2: Is home birth safe?
For low-risk pregnancies with a qualified midwife, home birth can be a safe and empowering option. Always discuss with your healthcare provider.

Q3: Can children be present at a home birth?
Yes, many parents choose to involve siblings. For Cassie, having Astrid nearby made the experience more special.

Q4: How does the HipSurfer help postpartum?
It redistributes baby’s weight, eases back and arm strain, and supports feeding and bonding.

Q5: Where can I get the HipSurfer?
Directly from Hackerlily.com or in select Amcal Express airport stores in Sydney, Gold Coast, and Perth.

Final Thought: Home birth isn’t for everyone, but for Cassie it was empowering, peaceful, and unforgettable. Paired with the HipSurfer, her journey shows how the right choices and tools can make parenthood a little lighter.