Looking back at my first birth story in 2018, there were numerous red flags. Before I begin I need to emphasise that despite those challenges I wouldn’t change a thing as I have learnt so many invaluable lessons. I need to also mention that not all doctors and midwives are the same – just as no two experiences are the same.
Throughout my pregnancy I was considered low risk, with no health concerns to worry about. However, once we hit 38 weeks my obstetrician continued to suggest that there’s a higher stillbirth rate after 39 weeks so we should look to induce labour. Despite the lack of concrete evidence or further explanation we agreed, with no risk factors and no proof. We agreed. I left that appointment and was adamant my obstetrician would never do anything to put me or our baby in danger and there was nothing my family could say to convince me otherwise.
We went in on a Tuesday night where I was given cervidil to help initiate labour overnight. The following morning I had dilated to 2cm and was told I would have the gas when the obstetrician came to break my waters. This procedure turned out to be the most painful and uncomfortable part of the entire process, not only because I had limited coping mechanisms (including no gas) but perhaps because if I knew what I know now – my body and baby was not ready.
Once my waters were broken, I was placed on a drip, and within a mere two hours, everything took a sudden turn. My baby’s heart rate became erratic, prompting an urgent rush to the operating room for an emergency caesarean section.
We arrived in theatre and it was a great experience, the atmosphere was reassuring and the administration of the spinal block went smoothly. In what felt like no time at all, our precious baby girl was safely delivered at 39 weeks.
At the beginning of our postpartum journey in the hospital, we encountered some challenges with breastfeeding. While the majority of the midwives were great, there was one particular midwife who attempted to assist me – with force. Unfortunately, her well intentioned efforts caused more harm than good and the pain I experienced that day is still one of the most excruciating sensations I have ever experienced and there was absolutely no need for it.
I decided to exclusively pump to feed our girl and was determined to successfully breastfeed her. It wasn’t an easy path, but at 10 weeks old we achieved a pain free latch. The road to successful breastfeeding allowed me to gain a deep understanding of the less glamorous aspects of postpartum (experiencing a reflux baby as well as publicly expressing). Looking back, I am proud of the journey we went through as a family. The challenges we faced only strengthened our determination to provide the best for our children.
