Dafna's Cesarean Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I had a doctor's appointment and was 40 weeks plus 2 days. They thought I may have preeclampsia, as I'd been up all night with a headache. Also, my amniotic fluid was half of the amount it had been the week prior. They sent me to l & d for tests. I didn't have preeclampsia, but my amniotic fluid was leaking, so I was admitted. I stood up to use the bathroom, and my water broke. I was in labor.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

Labor was excruciating. My doula helped a lot. I had to get labor going on my own as my contractions stopped midway. We pumped and got good contractions going. I was lucky to have a birthing tub in my room (the only one in the hospital). I'm high risk, and have many health issues, so I had to use doctors and hospital.

What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?

Have a doula and coaching on labor through her.

What surprised you about your birth?

I labored naturally for 30 hrs. I got to 9 cm and fully effaced, but my baby wouldn't descend at all and his heart rate was decelerating. I had to have an emergency c-section (sans antibiotics, as I'm allergic). It took 3 epidural to get me not to feel the surgery. I ended up with a nasty wound infection that I am still recovering from. I thought I'd have a fully natural birthing experience...

Do your best. Mind over matter. Realize this is difficult, but you can get through it.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Deep breathing. Focusing on my doula and husband. Water. Birthing ball. Walking. Squatting.

What position did you end up delivering in?

Ended up with a c section.

How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?

I didn't bond with him for awhile due to surgery and infection. It was nice to hold him, but I couldn't really see him. I had no pain meds after surgery and couldn't care for him or anything...

What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?

Do your best. Mind over matter. Realize this is difficult, but you can get through it.