Marina's Cesarean Birth

When did you realize you were really in labor?

I started having contractions at 4:30 am but thought they were just very bad cramps. Later that day, my best friend told me that they were contractions and to start timing them. Sure enough I was actually having contractions, 1 minute long, 3-4 minutes apart for an hour. That's when I decided it's time to go to the hospital.

What was the most challenging thing about going natural?

The fact that I was really tired after being in labor for over 24 hours with consistent contractions.

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

I read a lot of books, blogs, watched videos, and read birth stories of others. My husband and I also took a "preparing for labor" class.

What surprised you about your birth?

I was surprised at how well I was handling my contractions. The birthing class taught me how to breathe and change positions to be comfortable.

Research, research and research! It helps a lot to know what can happen during labor/delivery.

What pain relief strategies worked best?

Counter pressure, rocking my hips, cold shower and nitrous oxide.

What position did you end up delivering in?

After being in labor for over 24 hours, I was only 6 cm dilated and my baby was not dropping. I delivered via c-section.

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

I held my baby for a few minutes before she was taken away. I lost a lot of blood during the c-section and had to be put to sleep to stabilize my blood pressure. I held her again 2 hours later after I was stable. It felt surreal.

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

Research, research and research! It helps a lot to know what can happen during labor/delivery. I was planning to have a natural birth but it didn't turn out that way. Since my labor was not progressing, a c-section was the best option for me and my baby. By doing my own research and reading, I was prepared and wasn't scared when I was told I needed a c-section.