Babies come into the world in a number of ways: home birth, premature, on time, late, hospital births and c-sections. Nontheless, the way a baby comes into this world is worth celebrating. C-section, or also known as caesarean section, is often used when the mother's health or the babies is at risk. According to MSNBC, 30% of all births are done by c-section. Here is Jennifer Johnson's, a Colorado Springs mom, story about her three c-sections.
Why was your first born a c-section?
Johnson: My first born was a C-section because he was Breech. I saw a PA (Physician's Assistant) for most of my prenatal care and she didn't notice he was breech until about my 35th week. About then I saw an OB, she could tell right away and ordered an ultrasound. They tried to do a version where they turn the baby from the outside by a series of pushing on my belly but I was too far along and there wasn't enough room and he wouldn't turn. I had a choice to try and deliver breech, but I chose C-section.
I understand your other children were also born by c-section. Was v-bac (vaginal birth after c-section) an option?
Johnson: Yes, both my other 2 were c-section deliveries. V-bac was an option for my 2nd and I planned that route up until about 2 weeks before my due date. They estimated him to be 10 pounds and that terrified me to try and deliver so I opted for a second c-section. It was all I knew! My first c-section was a breeze and so it sounded much more pleasant than pushing out a 10 pounder! After 2 cesarian's they did not allow a vbac so I had to have my 3rd via c-section.
How as your experiacne?
Johnson: My c-sections were all very similar experiences, except each one successively was harder on my body and that made the recovery time longer with each one. With all 3 I had an epidural, they all went in painlessly. Keith, [my husband] was able to be with me in the OR for each birth and cut the cord for each birth. For my first c-section, the doctors did a pinch test to make sure the epidural was working, then they started cutting. Of course I couldn't really feel anything until they got the uterus open. They warned me I would feel tugging and pressure as they pulled the baby out. That was accurate, no pain, just a bit of pressure. When the baby was out they suctioned out the mouth and nose and he cried, they brought him over by me as soon as the cord was cut. I got to see and touch him then they took him to weigh and clean up, once he was wrapped they brought him over again so I could see, touch and talk to him while they wrapped up the surgery. When I went to recovery, my husband stayed with the baby. I was in recovery for an hour then to my room where baby and dad were waiting for me.
How was your recovery?
Johnson: The only differences was my recovery time, It took me longer to get up and around after surgery with each successive one. With my first I was up and around after about 8 hours. After the second it took me about 12-15 to get up out of bed. Lastly, with my third, It was over 24 hours before I could walk and I ended up staying an extra night. Even though the baby was released, I was able to keep him with me in my room for the extra day.
What is your advice to other moms facing a c-section birth?
Johnson: Everyone's body handles anesthesia and surgery differently. For me, the epidural and surgery were easy on the first one. However your baby comes, natural or surgery, it's a life changing, beautiful experience. You need to do what is safe for you and the baby and go into it with a positive attitude. God has a plan!
Keep coming back as we continue to Celebrate Life with a look into VBAC births. Like what you are reading? Subscribe to my articles or like me on facebook.
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