10 Tips for Writing Your Birth Story (Even If You Hate to Write)
Writing your birth story can seem like a daunting task, especially if you're not someone who likes to write. As a mom of two, I can say that the birth stories of my girls, both carefully and thoughtfully written out, are two of my most cherished keepsakes. Whether you are the next Steinbeck or someone who cringes at the thought of writing, you can create a birth story that will be meaningful to you (and your child) for years to come.
1. Don't wait too long
Yes, it might not be possible to write your birth story the day or day after you give birth, but don't wait too long. You want your experience to be fresh in your mind. (I think I wrote both of mine roughly a week after.)
2. Take notes
With my first baby, I remembered every single thing about my birth experience. With my second, it was all a blur. Thankfully I took some notes during the process. My little bullet points, like "water broke at 8:30″ or "she had the cutest, tiniest sneeze right after she was born" came in handy when my memory fell short.
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3. Ask your audience
If your husband, partner, mom, or friend was with you while you birthed your child, ask them about the details. Their recollections might be a good check for you if you are unsure about certain details.
4. Use photos
If you have photos of your birthing experience, use them to tell the story. Photographs can be a great way to remember certain parts of your labor, too.
5. Write it all at once
When you first sit down to write your story, write it from beginning to end. You will have a much more fluid piece of writing if written all at once. (Don't worry, you can always go back!)
6. Be authentic
Your story is for you. It doesn't need to impress anyone. If there were painful moments, write about them. If there were ugly moments, don't be afraid to include them. Every moment of your child's birth is a part of the story.
7. Write in your normal voice
Your story should come from your voice, written with the kind of language you normally use. Don't worry about making it sound elaborate with fancy descriptions and vivid details if that's not who you are.
8. Go back and edit
Like any piece of writing, editing is a necessity. You can take as long as you need to get it where it needs to be.
9. Save it
Save it someplace you won't lose it. If it's handwritten, be sure to make a copy. If it's on your computer, be sure to back it up. Years from now, when your babe is old and grown, it'll be a neat "souvenir" to look back on.
10. Share it
(If you want.) Send it to your family and friends, put it on your blog, post it to your Facebook. I personally love to read birth stories. I find them super inspiring and enlightening - especially if I'm expecting! If you'd rather keep it to yourself, that's fine too. No matter what, it'll be a special thing to have.
-By Lacy Stroessner
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