After discovering our baby was suddenly breech during our 39-week OBGYN appointment, my husband and I had to quickly come to terms with the need for a C-section. (You can read that full story here.)
Our Arrival at the Hospital
On May 22, 2024, we parked at the hospital at noon, feeling a mix of nervousness and excitement. Our doula was there waiting for us, a comforting presence in an otherwise overwhelming situation. Together, we walked inside and went up to the fourth floor to Labor and Delivery, where they immediately got us into a room.
Once settled, the nurses had me go to the bathroom and perform a thorough wipe down with antiseptic wipes. Returning to the bed, they started an IV and shaved my bikini area with an electric razor. The IV hurt. I remember telling my husband it felt like they hit a nerve, though the pain eventually wore off.
The medical team explained the next steps: I would be taken back to the Operating Room and given a spinal tap before my doula and husband could join me. This was the part I dreaded the most. The thought of an epidural or spinal tap terrified me. Thankfully, my doula stepped in, explaining to the anesthesiologist that I really needed someone with me. She assured him of her experience, and he agreed to let her accompany me.
Go Time in the Operating Room
Walking back to the OR with my Labor and Delivery nurse, I felt a mix of anxiety and anticipation. My labor and delivery nurse held my hand while my doula stood behind her. The anesthesiologist, though a student, was incredibly calming, explaining each step of the spinal tap. Feeling grateful for their support, I tried to focus on their words rather than my fear.
Once the spinal tap was administered, they laid me back on the surgery table and tested to make sure I couldn’t feel pain. Then, they brought my husband into the room. The anesthesiologist stayed by my head, talking me through the procedure and distracting me with light conversation about my job. Although I felt mostly pressure, there was one moment of sharp pain, and they quickly adjusted the medication.
The Moment We Dreamed About: Our Son’s Arrival
At 2:37 PM CST, the birth team told me to look up. I saw them holding my son up for the first time, a moment of pure joy and relief. My husband went over to be with him while they cleaned him up, and the team continued closing me up. Though time seemed to blur, the next thing I remember is my son being laid on my chest for skin-to-skin contact. This moment was precious to me, something I failed to explicitly request but knew I wanted. I was so grateful the hospital naturally provided me that opportunity.
Beginning the Road to Recovery
Holding him skin-to-skin, they finished closing me up and then wheeled us back to the labor and delivery room. Back in the room, I continued holding my son, and the nurses helped me latch him to my breast for his first feeding. It felt surreal and beautiful, a moment I had longed for despite the unexpected circumstances.
After about two hours in the Labor and Delivery Unit, recovering and bonding with our baby, we were moved to the Mother/Baby Unit for the rest of our hospital stay. Reflecting on our birth experience, I felt immense gratitude. The labor and delivery nurses were fantastic, the anesthesiologist expertly managed my fears, and the birth team ensured both my son and I were safe and healthy.
Final Thoughts
Every birth experience is unique. While ours didn’t go as initially planned, I’m grateful for the care we received. My unexpected cesarean birth was a positive experience, and I’m thankful for everyone who helped bring our son into the world safely.
For any moms out there who might face sudden changes in their birth plans, know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel all the emotions that come with it. At the end of the day, the most important thing is the health and safety of both you and your baby.
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