My C-Section Experience

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Bronzey
(I posed a question on my Facebook page about whether or not anyone would be interested in a post like this. I was rather surprised at the amount of discouraging comments on the post. Reading the comments, I got the feeling that people assumed that I thought every c-section would be a breeze. That is not the case at at all! It would be ignorant for me, or anyone, to assume every c-section is easy. So, please understand that is not what I’m implying. I can only hope people have a easy experience like I did, but sometimes that isn’t the case.)

I knew that I would, in all likelihood, be having this baby via c-section quite early in my pregnancy. By 30 weeks he was still breech and happy about it. 

It was around that time that I started talking to my friends who have had c-sections about their experiences. I wanted to know how it went for them, whether it was smooth or tough. I felt like I could “prepare” by knowing all kinds of things that could happen instead of going into it blind. 

So, I want to share a little bit more about my experience simply as a friend. Quite obviously, everyone’s experience is different (sometimes great, sometimes awful), but my hope is that this could potentially put you at ease if you have a c-section scheduled in your future.

So, keep in mind this was a scheduled c-section. Not an emergency, there were no immediately health dangers to either myself or the baby. An emergency c-section, I would imagine, would be rather different. So, remember to read this through the lens of a planned, non-emergent c-section. 

I was talked through the procedure by my OBGYN, a nurse during my hospital registration appointment the day prior, and then in snippets by the nurses and doctors on the day of the actual procedure. I felt like I had a good idea of how things were going to go. 

Justin and I arrived to the hospital 2 hours prior to my scheduled c-section time. I changed into a hospital gown, was given an IV, and they put monitors on my belly to monitor David. 

It was sort of strange, sitting there with Justin waiting to be rolled back to the operating room. I wasn’t nervous at this point. I don’t think it had quite hit me yet. It felt a little bit like a random doctor appointment, but with more equipment. 

Closer to noon, the nurse anesthetist came in to explain to me what he would be doing. My OBGYN also swung by and double checked that David was still breech. She asked if I had any questions, I didn’t, and then excitedly walked away saying, “See you soon!”

At that point the reality began to hit me. I began to get a little nervous, but Justin helped me stay calm. 

Finally, right before noon, a few nurses came to get me. At this point the reality was weighty. I began to get a little nervous and a little emotional. Justin walked beside me and I was rolled down to the operating room. Right before we entered, Justin went into the “daddy lounge” to wait until he was allowed into the OR. I cried when he left me. Then I gave myself a pep talk and pulled it together. I didn’t want to start getting anxious and end up needing some sort of drug to “chill me out”. I wanted to be mentally present for the entire experience. 

I was rolled into the cold operating room, and slid onto the operating table. A very kind nurse stood in front of me and showed me how I need to bend over for the spinal to be administered. A few minutes later, the anestethioligst came in, explained what he would be doing, and got to work. 

He numbed me first, which was virtually painless (felt like a minor bee sting), and then said he was going to insert the spinal. He warned me that my legs would feel warm and the numbing sensation would begin almost immediately. 

I didn’t feel the spinal go in, but I did feel it start to work immediately.

Then I was laid back with help from the nurses. The catheter was inserted, which I didn’t feel, and they began to hang the sheet. 

The nurse anesthetist and I were chatting about skiing at Deer Valley, since he was from the area, and it was helpful to get my mind off of what was happening. I was breathing deep to stay calm. 

The anestethiologist tapped my belly and rib cage to test and make sure the spinal was effective. Once everything was good to go, they began the procedure. 

There was conversation happening between the doctors and nurses so it wasn’t completely quiet in the room. I was thankful for that. At this point I could feel light touching but there was no pain whatsoever.

Justin came in, fully scrubbed and looking really cute if I might add, and sat by my head. I can’t remember what we talked about because it was all so fast. 

I remember my OBGYN announcing when she was making the uterine incision. It was 12:26p. David was out at 12:27p. 

Now, the strangest part of the c-section was how much the bed shook when they were getting David out. He was so high that they really needed to man-handle me to get him out. I think I may have laughed with Justin about how much the bed was shaking. In fact, he joked afterwards that it seemed like if they pulled any harder they would pull my right under the sheet! There was absolutely no pain, but I felt slight pressure and touching. It seemed like a long minute, but in hind-sight it was really nothing.

Justin and I heard David cry right away, which I had prayed for, and that was pretty incredible. C-section babies, I’m told, have a lot of gunk in their airway because they weren’t pushed through the birth canal, so sometimes they don’t cry immediately.

I was then told to look to my left for a “drive-by view” as they whisked him into the warm room. The operating room was too cold for him and I wanted him to be warm and safe more than I wanted to hold him right away. Justin was called into the warm room to be with him and take photos. 

As I was being stitched up, my collar bone began to feel sore. It was a really unusual feeling and I told my nurse anesthetist about it and he gave me something to take the pain away. 

Justin came back into the operating room, carrying our son all wrapped up in blankets. It was really sweet to see him come walking in with him.

I thought I would be emotional right away but I wasn’t. And now that I’ve had several days to process it, I think I know why. Since I didn’t see him come out, and barely even felt anything, it didn’t feel real that that was my baby being whisked out of the room. And to be completely transparent, it took about 2 days for it to really set in that David was here. I would look down at my belly, which was now empty, and then look at David. I sort of had to make the connection myself. (I should add: at this point I feel totally connected to him. It was just the initial shock and not seeing him “exit”)

Once I was stitched up, my OBGYN said goodbye and congratulations and I was rolled into the recovery area. Justin and David were already in the “stall” waiting for me. David was being wrapped up while a nurse was asking me to monitor my pain level. She was also encouraging me to move my legs. As soon as I could move both of my legs, we could go to the room we were staying in and family could come visit. 

Justin and I kept saying, ” I can’t believe he’s here!” to each other. While still in the recovery room they asked if I wanted to hold him, and I said I did. They laid him on my chest, but I was laying completely flat so it wasn’t very comfortable to hold him. I tried to look at him but because I was wearing my glasses I couldn’t see him clearly. It was not a special moment. It felt a little awkward. There was a lot happening and I couldn’t tune out all that was going on in order to focus on him. 

Finally, we were rolled into the room we were staying in and I was able to hold David while sitting up a bit. Finally it felt comfortable and normal to hold him. I was still in a little bit of shock that it all happened so quickly and was so painless! 

My family, and Justin’s family, arrived shortly thereafter. We spent some time visiting with them and after a few hours we were left by ourselves to get some rest. 

It was pretty amazing to be just the three of us in the hospital room. We took turns hold him and just staring at him. 

At this point my pain level was at a 1, on a scale of 1-10. Very minor. And it pretty much remained that way for the duration of my recovery. On Sunday morning I got up to go to the bathroom and my incision was pretty sore. I almost cried but I stopped myself because I knew crying would make it hurt worse since that would engage my abs! Other than that, I was pleasantly surprised at how minimal the pain was. 

I stayed on top of my pain pills and took them every time they were offered. I got up and walked around the day after surgery and tried to keep flexing my legs and feet to prevent swelling. I needed a lot of help getting out of the hospital bed, going to the bathroom, and pulling my pants up. 

We left the hospital on a Monday, 3 days after the surgery. We were both very ready to get home. At that point was I was moving around quite well once I was up, but still needed help getting up and down. 

Once we were home, I felt great. I was still a little sore, but it was so comfortable to be home and in my own bed. At this point I was also still taking the pain pills regularly.

Justin set up about 4 pillows on the bed for me to sleep on an incline. He also slipped a pillow under my knees to keep my knees bent. I wasn’t read to stretch out completely flat. 

He helped me get up, and lay back down, during the night. As far as going to the bathroom, I was able to do that on my own once I was home. 

We went for a walk the following day and it felt great to move. The fresh air also felt wonderful! 

Within about 4 days of arriving back home, I had tapered off my pain pills and was just taking Motrin every once in awhile. I felt really good and almost back to normal. The swelling kept going down too, which I was really happy about.


And now, over a month post-surgery, I feel 100% myself. I try to go for a walk (roughly 3/4 mile) everyday that the weather is nice. 


My incision is healed completely and I haven’t had any pain for about three weeks. Every once in awhile I’ll have a minor sharp pain when I go to stand up, but it goes away very quickly.


So, would I have another c-section? Absolutely. I am very, very thankful that I had such a smooth procedure and recovery. I think part of the reason I bounced back so quickly is because I stayed active throughout the majority of my pregnancy. In fact, a nurse asked me if I worked out during the pregnancy and when I told her I did she said she could tell that I had. I felt like my hard work had paid off.


A few other questions: 


Why did you have a c-section? David was breech. We opted against doing version or any other attempts to flip him because the success rate seemed so low. 


Would you be interested in doing a v-back? Sure, although I truly wouldn’t be opposed to another c-section either. I will just wait and see how I feel when/if the time comes! 


How long did it take them to stitch you up? Time was so strange after David was out (it went by so fast), but I think it was about 20 minutes or so.


Could you eat right away? No, I was on a liquid diet for the rest of the day and night, but I could eat normal food the following morning. 


How do you care for the incision? Basically you don’t do anything to it. You don’t clean it or mess with it. In the shower, you let the soap from washing your body just run over it, but you don’t rub it. Both in the hospital and at home I laid a thick maxi pad over the incision to provide a bit of padding. 


How soon were you able to try feeding your baby? Oddly enough, I can’t really remember. I feel like it was immediately after we were in the room we were staying in. 


How were your emotions afterwards? I was more stable that I anticipated. I had a few evenings where I would break down and cry from a combination of exhaustion and the weight of caring for such a tiny baby! At this point, I feel pretty balanced out. 


If you have any questions, comment below with them and I’ll try to answer them in updated versions of this post! 

To those who are having c-sections: I hope this was informative and helped ease your mind! It really wasn’t that bad, and the hype and anticipation of it was far more dramatic than the procedure itself.

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Bergan Blundell says · 01.16.14

Thank you for this post! Awesome story! I wanted to comment that I can totally relate to that awkward “first hold” moment. It’s the same with a vaginal delivery — you FINALLY get to see your baby but you feel so weak and shaky from the whole experience. I just kept thinking “I’m going to drop him! Please somebody take him!” Plus they have you in the most awkward incline ever for baby holding. Hahaha. It’s definetly not like the movies!

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Kate says · 01.16.14

It is SO not like the movies ๐Ÿ™‚

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Amy's Avenue Blog! says · 01.16.14

But really, when is ANYTHING ever like it is in the movies?!?!!? I want a refund sometimes!!!! Like first kisses, they are really awkward most of the time! haha. Sorry, off topic! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Amy Sue says · 01.16.14

It was like that for me too. (Vaginal delivery) We did kangaroo care where the baby is laid on your chest for skin to skin contact. They left me laying flat and I couldn’t even see Eli!

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Jennifer-Mommy Life After Ph.D. says · 01.17.14

Oh my gosh, yes! How are you supposed to hold a kid with your neck? Worst bed position ever! ๐Ÿ™‚
~Jennifer
http://www.mommylifeafterphd.com

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M Conrad says · 01.29.14

I had my son at home on the bathroom floor (my first) because oddly enough I didn’t feel my contractions. I can relate to the awkward feeling as well….after my son and I got into the hospital I was wheeled through the nursery in a wheelchair and I looked around hoping for that ‘that one is mine’ moment….it never came. Not sure if its because of the shock of the event however now he is my best buddy and already 5….time does fly

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Kelly (She Wears a Red Sox Cap) says · 01.16.14

Thanks so much for posting this. I think there are so many horror stories about ALL births out there, it’s nice to have just a normal, honest, positive experience. You are also the first person to ever say that first moment might not be magical and I appreciate that because I can totally see myself having an experience like you or the commenter above ๐Ÿ™‚

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Kate says · 01.16.14

Thanks for reading!

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Jass says · 01.16.14

Thanks alot for sharing your story . I am expecting baby in May and reading your story makes me hopeful that in case it will be a c- section it will not be a negative experience.Congrats for your baby boy, he is adorable and so are you. I love your blog, keep sharing your new mama experience

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Kate says · 01.16.14

Thanks! I wish you the best!

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Jass says · 01.16.14

I had one question: did you use any kind of belly binder post delivery? Have you tried Belly Bandit or anything like that?
Thanks for reply! It made my day:)

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Jas says · 11.22.16

Thank you so much for your post on c-section experience… i was terrified initially. But after reading your blog.. i feel at ease and i am ready for my c-section.

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Kate says · 11.22.16

I’m so glad!

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Susan says · 01.16.14

Personally I’m happy you posted despite the nasty comments. My first son was born via c-section 11 years ago because he was also breech. 22 months later I delivered his brother by c-section (recommended by my OB) and I have no regrets.
Each birth is unique and the ultimate goal is a heathy baby and mommy! Congratulations again on your beautiful David!!!

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Kate says · 01.16.14

there definitely wasn’t “nasty” comments! I just got the feeling that many people didn’t want me to share (which is fine if that’s how they feel). I just so enjoyed reading other birth stories so I wanted to share mine!

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valentinegirl says · 01.16.14

I’m sorry that you had negative comments initially. I’m glad you had a good experience and it sounds like you were happy with your care. You and your family are doing well and that’s what is important!

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Aline@TamedMusingsBlog says · 01.16.14

I had a c-section. It wasn’t scheduled (I went into labor), but I didn’t dilate and my baby was very high… If I insisted on natural I would have been there for many, many, many hours of pain and no guarantee that I could pull it off. I got to cuddle my baby in the operating room while I was stitched up, then he went with his daddy to get a bath, first shots, first examination, etc, and then (this was like 20min later) he was back with me in the recovery room. My recovery was also great. I think there’s a lot of criticism of c-sections, which can be great experiences. I actually know several natural birth cases with complications and bad recoveries, people just don’t talk about them. I tell my story here: http://tamedmusingsblog.com/category/birth-story/

Congrats on the post!

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SouthernProletariat says · 01.16.14

I didn’t read the comments to the other post, but I am sorry you had negative ones. FWIW, I attempted a “natural” birth- 17+hours of unmedicated heavy labor, plus 6 hours of epidural labor later, I had a C-section. Then I was going to do a VBAC with my second…placenta previa led to a “scheduled” C-section. And that one was SOOO much easier… (so I have been on both sides of the “natural” birth debate/experiences)

But honestly, my girls are 11 and 9 now. I couldn’t tell you by looking at the children in their classes who was C-section, who was “natural”, who was BF, who was bottle, etc…all the “hot points” for birth and early years. I *can* tell you however, who has loving, engaged parents….pls keep that in mind as you get negative comments ๐Ÿ˜‰

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Kate says · 01.16.14

You’ve really experienced the whole spectrum of birth options–glad your girls got here safely

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Danielle says · 01.16.14

I had an emergency C-Section because of a rapidly escalating health problem (HELLP), but actually the C-Section itself went very smoothly and I had no complications afterwards due to the surgery. I mean I had some recovery time, the scar, etc, but everyone has recovery time from giving birth. I honestly think, for me, it helped that I was so early (33 weeks) because I hadn’t yet planned out in my head how I wanted the birth to go. So it didn’t mess with me too much that it wasn’t the way I had planned it. (Also, I had other stuff to worry about, like blood pressure issues and a 3 pound baby in the NICU, which definitely took priority!) I think it’s great to hear stories about C-Section births that go smoothly and result in a positive outcome for mom and baby. Obviously doctors don’t want women scheduling them willy-nilly on a whim but I think as a result we often hear how dangerous and major they are which can be scary when you NEED one (I tried to talk my doctor out of it, asking for induction, because I had been told how bad they were). Hearing positive stories is reassuring for women in your position and mine.

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Angela Richardson says · 01.16.14

I’m really happy you posted, and I can’t believe people would think you were encouraging c-sections. They are major surgery and most people don’t want one, but if circumstances change its nice to be able to reflect on other people’s positive experiences. I had an emergency c-section with my daughter and my procedure and recovery also went very smoothly. I was fortunate enough to be able to vbac with my son this past May, and that recovery was even quicker. I felt like I could run a marathon after his birth. However, if we ever have another baby, I know all I care about is having a healthy and happy baby in the end. So happy for you and wishing continued joy in new motherhood!

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Hannah Crane says · 01.16.14

it’s really nice to see such an honest outlook on the whole thing. so many women talk about that instant connection and how they bonded right away but, obviously sometimes that doesn’t happen. with my first I went into labor and ended up rushing to the hospital so I wouldn’t have her in the car! That was instant connection. with my next,I was induced, so the planned baby being born was a little harder to connect with. totally normal and like I said, really nice to see such honesty! Congrats again!

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Andrea says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing your story!! I have a c-section scheduled in 7 weeks with my first baby so this helps to put my mind at ease about the whole process and recovery.

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Kate says · 01.16.14

great!

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Jill Moore says · 01.16.14

Thank you for sharing your birthing experience all on the interweb! I don’t have any children yet, but I am trying to educate myself on all birthing options so I can be prepared for whatever may happen. I do have a question though, since he was not born vaginally, do you feel like you missed out the immediate skin-to-skin contact to get that bonding moment?

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Kate says · 01.16.14

No, I don’t feel like I missed out on that. We had plenty of skin to skin while we were in the hospital!

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Kendra W. says · 01.16.14

I see that you regularly worked out during your pregnancy. I have heard this very well could have helped with having a c-section and recovery. What type of workouts did you do throughout your pregnancy?

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Ashley says · 01.16.14

Thank you so much for sharing! My daughter is almost 6 months old now and before I went in for my induction (she was 10 days late abd showed no signs of wanting to go anywhere! ) it helped reading other birth stories! And I totally agree, i thought holding Hailey for the first time was going to be the most magical thing in the world, mind you still a special moment, but it wasn’t what I had planned in my head! I was in labor for over 36 hours, slept maybe an hour during it and hadn’t eaten in almost 24 hours and had the shivering issue so bad so I was exhausted and hungry and shaking that I felt like I wasn’t totally there with her when they finally put her on me. Again, still amazing see my daughter but not at all what I expected!

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Ashley says · 01.16.14

Thank you so much for sharing! My daughter is almost 6 months old now and before I went in for my induction (she was 10 days late abd showed no signs of wanting to go anywhere! ) it helped reading other birth stories! And I totally agree, i thought holding Hailey for the first time was going to be the most magical thing in the world, mind you still a special moment, but it wasn’t what I had planned in my head! I was in labor for over 36 hours, slept maybe an hour during it and hadn’t eaten in almost 24 hours and had the shivering issue so bad so I was exhausted and hungry and shaking that I felt like I wasn’t totally there with her when they finally put her on me. Again, still amazing see my daughter but not at all what I expected!

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Elizabeth says · 01.16.14

Like you said, every experience is so different! I had my twins vaginally, and honestly, it was AWFUL – I delivered Baby B breech, and even though my epidural was fully in effect, it was very painful, and it took me several months to recover. I ended up with an emergency c-section for my third, and it was a little scary, but after what we’d been through (long story), I was ready to get him out! It was a painful recovery, but still a thousand times better than after my twins.

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karen hoppe says · 01.16.14

My C-Section was almost exactly the same as yours. The only difference for me was that I don’t do well on any type of pain meds. The first night I took 1 pain pill as it didn’t really seem like an option not too, but after that I declined and was able to manage the discomfort (which was surprisingly minimal based on the surgery) with alternating tylenol and motrin every 2 hours. After I healed there were times when I would feel a “pulling” at the end of the scar which I was told was very normal .It was part of the healing process.
So glad you had a good experience and that you are feeling so good.

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Jamie says · 01.16.14

I’m pregnant now and have to say it’s extremely refreshing to see a birth story that isn’t a horror story! You had such a positive attitude and I’m confident that has helped with your recovery too! Thanks for sharing!

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Chris says · 01.16.14

This comment has been removed by the author.

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Julie says · 01.16.14

I agree! That first hold was SO awkward. My arms were so shaky that I only held my son for about a minute and begged my husband to take him. I was terrified I’d drop him! We also elected for a c/s for medical reasons and it was the best choice ever. My son was wedged in and would have never descended (according to my dr). God provides, even in c/s choices ๐Ÿ™‚

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Blondewithbrains says · 01.16.14

Your experience sounded very similar to mine, except my water had broken and I was already in active labour when they found the bum instead of the head…it was a positive for me as well as I was still able to make the decision to have or not to have the c section and it went smoothly…I laughed at you mentioning how hard they were pulling on him to get him out as I went through the same but had a drop in bp as he was suctioned to my ribcage and I almost passed out…the weirdest part is lying there looking at your legs and feet and trying to get them to move and they wont, that was a bit scary for me…I chose to have a v back on my second child and that was a worse experience than the section due to a few complications but it did turn out fine in the end. Glad you are on all healed up and love that little boy silly!!

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Amber says · 01.16.14

I’m so glad you had a good birth experience! My first was a c-section because he ended up being too darn big to come out vaginally. My tiny little OB had to stand on a stool to get enough leverage to move him out from under my ribs so she could grab him. I remember my ribs actually being a little sore for a couple of days! My second c-section was scheduled. I had a horrible time with the IV (5 sticks) and spinal that time. I remember being stuck at least twice, maybe three times in the back, and he did a lot of digging. It hurt. After we got home I started getting really bad headaches, which I chalked up to hormones and being so stressed and exhausted – it’s not easy to take care of a newborn and a 2 year old simultaneously! In hindsight, the headaches were a result of my horrible spinal experience (cerebrospinal fluid was leaking, making my brain hurt due to lack of cushioning). I should’ve gone back to the hospital and had the hole patched, but in my exhaustion I didn’t realize that’s what was up (and I’m a nurse!). The headaches finally went away after about 6 weeks. That’s literally the only complication I experienced either time. We were very blessed to have safe deliveries for everyone.

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Jessica says · 01.16.14

People get sensitive about birth experiences whether vaginal or c-section. It’s weird because it’s such a great experience and we should be able to talk openly and happily about it . I remember typing my birth stories (vaginal unmedicated) and wondering if I would offend anyone for any strange reason.

Anyways, I’ve never shared your experience but I like that you posted this. You don’t see this much detail very often on c-section births so it is interesting to read exactly how it goes and how you felt through the whole experience. Glad you are feeling great!

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Cassie says · 01.16.14

This post made me think of a conversation I had with my hubs last week. I contemplated whether most events are just experiences and how we think or act on them is what makes them good or bad experiences. Glad you found a way to be positive about it!

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Natalie Smith says · 01.16.14

The issue of cesarean is always such a debate as so many people have their own opinions on the subject – having said that, I am so glad you had such a good overall birth experience. I am 35 weeks & going in for my section on Feb. 10th. I pray my experience goes as smoothly as yours. David has the face of an angel! All the best to you & your family ๐Ÿ™‚

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Rebecca Lately says · 01.16.14

This was so interesting to read! I have never had a c-section, but can honestly say I’m terrified of them. My husband and I want to have at last one more baby, and I’m so scared that for some reason I’ll have to have a c-section. But, you are so calm about it! I’m so glad that everything went well for you. David is so cute!

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Ashley says · 01.16.14

I’ve learned that people can be extremely critical of bloggers. Thank you for sharing your birth story!

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Blondie says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing! I’ve never experienced a C-section as a patient, but I was a scrub tech that assisted in a lot of C-sections! It can be a scary position for anyone to be in to have surgery, but I can imagine, even more scary when it’s two of you having surgery! I’m glad you had a great staff and shared your experiences. I can tell you first hand that we try to go above and beyond to make it as non-scary and joyous as it can be ๐Ÿ™‚ I loved being a part of that team!

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Kerry McManama says · 01.16.14

Lovely! So real and informative.

This is my favorite bit — especially your last observation: “I wasn’t nervous at this point. I don’t think it had quite hit me yet. It felt a little bit like a random doctor appointment, but with more equipment.” (I felt like I was there with you.)

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Alisha says · 01.16.14

Thank you for sharing your story! I love reading about so many types of experiences. =) I’m glad yours was a pleasant one and you have certainly inspired me to be more active if I’m blessed with a second pregnancy. So thanks for that too! I had a somewhat emergency C-section after over 17 hours of labor. It was so dang rough (not the C-section itself but the rest of the day) and my recovery was hard. Also, I agree that the first time holding him (in the OR) was awkward. It was special and something I’ll always remember but I was so weak and shaky and had a hard time seeing him. As much as I would like to have a VBAC next time, the thought of having that same experience all over again freaks me out and I could see myself opting for a C-section if it looked like I might need one again. Anyway – enough about me. ๐Ÿ˜‰ Your boy is an absolute doll!!! I’d love to hear more about your breastfeeding experience down the road too. Hope that’s going well for you. Again, thanks for being such a sweet, positive, genuine blogger. =)

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Kate Wetsell says · 01.16.14

I am so happy to read this story! Not only I am happy to hear about you, Jason, and David’s story but it is SO nice to hear about C-sections that presented in a positive light. I had an emergency C-section and was so disappointed that I didn’t have the “perfect birth” that I thought so many people had. I really appreciate your detailed account and cheerful positive attitude. Your story makes me feel so much better about the fact that if we decide to have another baby, I will have to have another C-section. It’s amazing how the Lord provides for us, even if it is in ways that we don’t expect.

Thanks for being brave enough to share pictures. You look great and your face in the first one is priceless!

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Amy Faulkner says · 01.16.14

I’m glad you are posting this! When I was pregnant, I was getting advice left and right about labor and delivery, but only one person gave me any advice about c-section and I’m so glad she did. (It was the hairstylist at the Walmart salon, actually.) Her two pieces of advice were to get your staples out as soon as the doc will let you so you don’t end up with scabbing and bleeding when they are removed later, and to get up and walk as soon as they will let you in the hospital. I took both pieces of advice and I’m glad I did. My c-section was after a long (18+hours) labor stalled, so not emergency, but not planned either.

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blah blah says · 01.16.14

I had a planned induction because I developed preeclampsia, and when my daughter came out I didn’t have an instant connection with her either. I just felt weird and couldn’t reconcile the pregnancy with the child I was holding. Thank you for being so honest about your experience! I felt like everyone gave me a ton of advice but no one told me what to expect after having my baby! The hormonal shaking, the non-connection with the child, the real possibility of getting a UTI afterward…ugh. I didn’t feel prepared.

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Jill says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing! It is nice to read, and somewhat relieving. I suffered a broken/partially shattered pelvis in my late teens, and doctors have always told me I would need a c-section because of the inability for my pelvis to expand naturally. Now that we are trying to start a family, it is sort of nerve-wracking and scary. Your post kind of allayed some fears ๐Ÿ™‚

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Susan Wright says · 01.16.14

Thanks for the C section info. I once accompanied a young Mexican girl to surgery ( as translator) I think she was 15. But she had a lot of trust in me. WOW, it was a great once in a lifetime occasion. I think she found out that is it not as much fun getting them out as it was getting them in there. LOL David is a babydoll ! Blessing Kate & family~

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Shannon says · 01.16.14

One reason I absolutely love your posts and check your blog everyday is because of your honesty. No matter what the topic…a makeup product or a c-section. You keep it real no matter what. Thank you!

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Kate says · 01.16.14

Thank you! That’s so nice!

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Carrie says · 01.16.14

Your story sounds a lot like mine – breech baby, scheduled c-section, super easy recovery. I’m due with my second in a few weeks and planning on attempting a VBAC – however, if things don’t end up working out – I have no problem having another c-section. In fact, the thought of a c-section makes me a lot less anxious than having a baby via VBAC – but I think it’s just the unknown that’s scary. Great post – thanks for taking the time to share. Also – I think it’s awesome that your husband/baby got to be with you in recovery – that was the worst part for me – having to be away from them (all by myself) for over an hour while I was in recovery.

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R2P2 says · 01.16.14

I hated to see all those discouraging comments on FB. I’m glad you didn’t let them stop you. While every birth story is unique, I do think it’s good for women to know that a c-section doesn’t automatically mean “horrible birth story.” As pregnant women, we already have so many worries (many of them from our own neuroses!), that I think it’s good to get encouragement where we can!

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likeagrahamcracker says · 01.16.14

I have three boys. The first was a vaginal birth and really, he’s the only one I remember having the first moment with. It was very awkward. I was shaking so badly that I told them I didn’t want to hold him for fear of dropping him. So the nurse kind of held him to me while I held him. It was weird. I’ve always felt terrible for feeling that way but after reading this, maybe not so much. My next one was and emergency c-section so they whisked him away quickly, he was fine. With my last one, I didn’t react well to the anesthesia and was not able to stay conscious. I was fine after the meds wore off but not awkward first moment. Thank you for sharing your story. It makes me remember mine, even though it started nearly 15 years ago!

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Jen says · 01.16.14

As a woman who has never had a baby but reads blogs by women who just happen to be moms, I think it’s great that you posted about your experience with a c-section. For women who are pregnant or want to have children someday, I appreciate hearing the good stories about birth (because when all of my friends have been pregnant every woman who’s had a bad experience with pregnancy wants to tell you how bad it was but you rarely hear about a good pregnancy) regardless of whether the birth was vaginal or c-section. Some women can’t have a vaginal birth because physically they just might not be able to (a friend of mine can’t do a vaginal birth because the shape of her uterus won’t allow for the baby to turn and she found this out late into her first pregnancy) or its an emergency situation. Whatever the woman chooses (or has to do) for their birth, I think every woman should just have a good birth experience period. And I think when you have a good birth story it should be shared so others are encouraged. So thank you for your insight. It is much appreciated.

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Megan says · 01.16.14

As a preggo mommy I am curious more as to the why behind the c-section as to how the actual experience went (my mom had an emergency c-section 10 years ago with my youngest brother because of HELLP that actually went very well and my aunt had two scheduled c-sections). Is delivering breech that much more troublesome or I guess there could be details to your situation that caused your OB to decide it was better than to try to deliver vaginally? I’m so nervous about the idea of surgeries in general, not that they don’t go well I just hate them. :-/ Thankfully my little guy seems to be quite happy floating on his head (he seems to have been there since at least my 20 week ultrasound) but I am so curious about the birthing process, wanting to know as much as possible since I don’t want this to be my only baby and I plan to have a few more.

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Kate says · 01.16.14

I believe delivering breech is quite dangerous. Since he was breech, that’s why I delivered him via c-section. Glad your guy is head down!

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Sally HP says · 01.16.14

Breech can be pretty dangerous-there are, of course, successful breech deliveries but they are risky. Baby’s head is the largest part, so it opens the canal and ‘paves the way’ for the rest of the body to be delivered-when the smallest part of the baby comes first as with a footling breech, the head gets stuck and takes quite a bit of finesse to get out without injury-that’s assuming you get to the delivery site in time ๐Ÿ™‚

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Christina Harms says · 01.16.14

I wanted to say thank you for sharing. I’m not a mom and don’t know yet if I plan to be. But reading about your experience through the whole pregnancy took away a lot of fear. I also like that you always keep it PG-13 with details, so it never seems gross. Please keep sharing! Thanks again.

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Kate says · 01.16.14

Thanks!

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Unknown says · 01.16.14

Love reading your post!! I had to have a c-section with both my kids. First one was really rough because I pushed for an hour before they took me in. My daughter, was born at 35 weeks and I went in knowing I was having a c-section the next morning, and had a very easy time healing with her. However, my son was (first c-section) was a nightmear for recovery, because I was so tired and worn out from pushing and going through the whole dilation process. I would have another c-section also. I think I’ve experienced the best and the worst :). I loved reading your post!! Congratulations on baby David, and welcome to the mommy club!!

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Hannah Groombridge says · 01.16.14

Thank you so much for sharing! After 32+ hours of unmedicated labor and 2 hours of pushing I ended up having an emergency c-section. My experience was a nightmare and had me so nervous to go through all of that again. So encouraging to read it is not always that way!

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Hannah Groombridge says · 01.16.14

Thank you so much for sharing! After 32+ hours of unmedicated labor and 2 hours of pushing I ended up having an emergency c-section. My experience was a nightmare and had me so nervous to go through all of that again. So encouraging to read it is not always that way!

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Kate says · 01.16.14

eek! that sounds rough!

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theannabelleblog says · 01.16.14

I really like reading birth stories – thanks for sharing yours!

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LoriU says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing your experience. I always like reading other people’s birth stories. I am glad that David arrived safely, and you have healed well. Question…if its not TMI….how large is the incision line? It is vertical or horizontal? Have you been cleared to start doing any workouts yet other than walking everyday?

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Kate says · 01.16.14

It’s horizontal and it’s about 5 inches long. And I have my 6 week appt next week!

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Kaitlin Lowe says · 01.16.14

I’ve followed your blog for a year or two now and while I totally understand that you are in a new phase of your life that you want to share with your followers, I feel like your recent posts have mostly been aimed towards the mother demographic or those who are expecting. I’m not in that demographic so I’ve been a bit disappointed lately. Sometimes I feel like a post of this type would be a better fit on Facebook since it has a more personal nature. I really miss seeing a new hair tutorial every Monday. Of course, this is your blog and I can’t tell you what to post. It’s just a bit disappointing since this has been my favorite hair blog for 2 years (and I’ve tried so many of your tutorials) that I would hate to try and find a new one.
Your blog is still a great one and I wish you the best in whichever direction you choose to move forward with.

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Kate says · 01.16.14

As seasons of life change, I think it’s only natural that my blog content may evolve a bit. There are going to be posts about my life (including my child) among beauty posts. If you are looking for exclusively beauty blogs, I’d recommend checking out essiebutton.com, maskcara.com, or searching this site: http://www.bloglovin.com/en/popular/1/4/us

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Lauren Elizabeth says · 01.16.14

lurve

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Kate says · 01.16.14

lurve yer

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Sally HP says · 01.17.14

I love the random sister post in the middle for a bit of levity-I have three sisters and the posts you guys do together are some of my faves!

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pbl81 says · 01.16.14

Thank you for posting this!!! Very informative and well written ๐Ÿ™‚ I have been following you over the past year or so and I am so happy God has blessed you with David. I am suffering from some fertility issues and I have found your blog to be very encouraging. Its so nice to see a positve outcome!!!

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Me says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing this Kate! I too had a planned c-section and had a very similar experience to yours as far as very little pain and bouncing back relatively quickly. So glad you had a positive experience! I had my second baby about 14 months after my first, and that was a planned c-section as well… it wasn’t quite the same awesome experience as the first go round, but it wasn’t terrible either. I also wanted to say it’s been such a delight seeing your pictures as you experience motherhood… the joy really leaps out at you, and it’s really cool to sort of relive those feelings through your pics. David is a beautiful baby, and I am so happy for you and Justin. Thanks again for sharing your life will all of us!

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Lar says · 01.16.14

I also love reading about birth stories so thank you for sharing yours. I had pretty hard labor and then ultimately a terrible experience with an emergency C-section. Thankfully my recovery was quick and me and baby were both perfectly healthy. When I have another baby, the OBGYN has already told me that I will probably need another C-section. The fear of going through that again does NOT outweigh the desire to have another baby. Us mothers learn to deal with a lot for our babies. ๐Ÿ™‚

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Mama Sue says · 01.16.14

Thanks for your story! I wish I had read more about this before my c-section but I had no clue I would need one and strangely, the c-section night of my childbirth class was the only class I missed because I was in the hospital…my husband brought our entire class into my room that night! My c-section was nearly 14 years ago. I had pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes and I was 40. All that is a recipefor a rough time. Because of the drugs for the pre-eclampsia it was all very fuzzy to me. Fortunately my husband filmed all of it and managed to not film the gross parts. So many times I would watch the film and think…wow, I don’t remember that or I don’t remember so and so being there! I also remember that weird detached feeling the first day. I had her on Thursday and my milk didn’t come in until Monday after I was home but that is common when labor doesn’t begin naturally and she was 3 weeks early so the natural progression of hormones hadn’t started. Like you, we were so ready to go home after nearly a week in the hospital…I was there 2 days before they decided it was okay to induce but my bp was so high and I wasn’t dilated so the dr. didn’t fool around very long that day. I was a basket case and scared to death. I was freaking out because I pass out easily and the thought of having surgery while I was awake was creepy to me (I fainted when I had my ears pierced with Novocain) so I knew I could never get thought it without getting very sick. My dr. and the anesthesiologist were amazing and took extra precautions to keep me calm and I did great. It was the best thing when my husband brought her to my side (one of the drs. held the video camera while he did this). He also rocked the scrubs! So handsome! I loved being pregnant so it took me awhile to have closure and I was sad that I didn’t have her naturally. Seven years later I found out that I would have had a c-section regardless because of the shape of my pelvis and that weirdly made me feel better after all those years. Take each minute in because it goes by so fast. My daughter is 13 now!

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Jordan says · 01.16.14

It’s interesting to read your experience of a planned c-section. I delivered a little girl (Charlie) on Tuesday via emergency c-section. I had actually finished laboring (to 10 in 2 1/2 hours) when we discovered that she was breech. Surprise! Much of your experience is very similar to mine and you’re right. No two c-sections are the same. I’m happy to see that you and your family are doing well.

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DC Lamonts says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing, Kate. I’m due with my third boy in May. Both of my older sons were born via emergency C-section (1st one was decelerating heart rate with contractions; 2nd time I pushed for 3 hours, but he got his head stuck!) and I was shaking a lot afterwards- not sure if it was because of the trauma of labor and then delivery or the meds or what. But it was miserable and I was sad I couldn’t hold my babies right away. So I’m interested in hearing about a scheduled C-section because I will most likely have one with baby #3. I think it’s nice to hear everyone’s birth experiences, because they prepare you for lots of different possibilities.

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lyndsay says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing. I completely get the not feeling connected/this is my baby feeling. I had a c – section with my first and felt the same way.

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Valerie Baker says · 01.16.14

Thank you so much for posting this. I will be going through the same thing Feb 3rd as our baby boy is also breeched. As of right now I feel pretty uneasy about the whole thing but super excited to see our little boy.

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Megan says · 01.16.14

It’s actually nice to read about a non emergency CS. I had a terrible birthing experience with my daughter, labored for a day and ended up with a CS. I’m doing a repeat in March, I hope because it’s non emergency it will be easier on me. Thanks for sharing your experience!

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Brittany Fry says · 01.16.14

Thank you so much for posting this!!! One of my biggest fears of having a baby is natural child birth. I know it is safer than c section but really in this day and age I think they are both safe, they wouldn’t do them if not. Reading your story really helps me put it into perception about what goes on during a scheduled c section. Most of the stories I have read are Emergency sections and that is not the same.

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Lisa Cuthill says · 01.16.14

I had an emergency csection due to preeclampsia and the horrendous pregnancy I kind of knew I was going to have one but it didn’t help any took me a long time to recover due to the prematurity of my daughter. I could remember everything about it now almost 6 years later I couldn’t tell you anything, just found out I am expecting again and will be high risk for preeclampsia gain so am planning an elective section I imagine it won’t be as stressful nod am sort of at peace with that decision I’d rather do that than a normal birth (I really have a thing about not doing it ever sorry just me). Your post was really reassuring xx

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Sally HP says · 01.16.14

So true-I’ve had all three versions; emergency section after three hours of pushing with number 1, vbac for number two and planned section with number three-every time it was the surreal ‘this is my baby?’ And then within a day or so it’s THIS is MY baby!’ Thank you for being honest about it-it’s something more people should talk about! So glad your procedure went well and that you’re recovering so nicely!

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Melissa says · 01.16.14

I’m really really really really glad it went so smoothly for you. ๐Ÿ™‚ I believe women with positive birth stories – all kinds of birth – need to put them out there to be encouraging to other first-time mommies. It’s hard when you’re pregnant with your first baby and all you hear is horror stories. We need to share the positive stories with each other too! ๐Ÿ™‚

My sister-in-law had two of her three babies via C-section and had good experiences as well. Technically they were both in the emergency category, but they weren’t stressful. The first one, she had been in a car accident where she wasn’t seriously injured (just bruising from the seatbelt) but it did kick her into early labor. They got it stopped but then over the next week or so she kept going into labor and the baby was breech. I think it was the fourth time she went to the hospital with contractions her OB happened to be the one on call and they talked and decided to do a C-section right then and there. The next baby there was no traumatic event, she just went into labor about two weeks early and decided to go ahead and have a C-section again since once again, her OB was the on-call. Lucky girl! I seem to have a habit of going into labor in the middle of the night when my OB isn’t the one on call. LOL But my births were pretty textbook and the OBs who did them were great.

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Susan says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing! I also had a breech baby from 30 weeks and ended up having a scheduled c-section. The question asked most to me was “Do you feel any less a women b/c you were not able to have a vaginal birth?” And my answer was a resounding “NO!” I didn’t put our baby in that position…she was just so comfortable there, i.e. hardheaded and still is!! I did try to have a VBAC with our 2nd child and was unsuccessful. After 18+ hours of labor, he just wasn’t coming and I wasn’t progressing. So, to keep from putting strain on me and the baby, we did a c-section! And I can say, I felt even better after that one! I think b/c I knew what to expect. And with our 3rd and final baby, I had another scheduled c-section! It was so smooth and I left the hospital 48 hours after she was born. The nurses were amazed at how well I did and how quickly I was up! I was begging them to remove the IV and everything!

I am glad that I tried to have a VBAC but the c-sections have been so easy for me that traditional labor is like wishing for 50 root canals at the same time!!!

You are a treasure for sharing with your readers your experiences! Thanks again!!

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JessiferSeabs says · 01.16.14

I had the exact same experience you did with a c/s, in terms of feeling a little disconnected at first, and having an amazingly easy recovery. My doc doesn’t recommend me for a VBAC so my next one will be scheduled (the first one was emergency), and I am totally excited about it!

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Jazmyn says · 01.16.14

I’ve had 2 c-sections (one just recently on Christmas Eve actually lol) and I never once thought of the maxi pad trick! I honestly wanted to try for a VBAC this time but then I decided I wanted a tubal done so I was like might as well have another c-section. I had no problems with either of my c-sections even with the first being an emergency one. 3.5 weeks later I’m finally starting to feel normal again.

J.

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Bella Vie says · 01.16.14

Oh goodness, giving birth is the greatest fear of my life!!! It’s what stops me from having a baby ha ha scariest thing in the world!!!! Props to you and congrats!!

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kristin says · 01.16.14

Congrats! I’m so glad you had a great experience/recovery. I had an emergency c-section with our first, which was less than ideal for me emotionally, but the recovery actually was fantastic. With our second I had a vbac, and it was a very healing experience for me. My biggest complaint with vbacs is that people can be so negative about them. I did a lot of research on it before we went for it. Congrats again. Glad you are feeling well and that everyone is healthy! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Jenn @ West Sac Honey says · 01.16.14

I love reading about birth stories because everyone is always very different but I’m glad you shared it! I can totally see why it would be different with everything going so quickly it’s probably a shock to be like whoa there’s my son! Glad your doing great!

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Nikki says · 01.16.14

Thank you for posting this! our baby is looking big, so my husband and I are discussing scheduled c-section to get ourselves prepared for the possibility, so I’m reading everything I can! Was yours scheduled super early (from your due date)?

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Kathleen says · 01.16.14

Thank you so much for posting this. I’m currently 33 weeks with twins so the chance of me having a C-section is pretty high. Saying I’m terrified is an understatement. Although our experiences may be different reading your story made me feel a lot better. I’m happy everything went so well for you and congrats on David. ๐Ÿ™‚

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Crystal @MyBlissfulSpace says · 01.16.14

Is it bad to say I’m a little relieved you felt a lack of “connection” at first?! ๐Ÿ˜‰ I had a vaginal delivery but with an epidural, and I think the lack of sleep and sheer shock of it all made it so surreal…and I didn’t get emotional like I thought I would, either. I remember looking around the room as they cleaned things up and felt like I was outside looking in…or something. So hard to describe! And I say blog about what you want to blog about. To me that’s what being a blogger IS. I think there’s something to be said for getting to know the person behind the computer. ๐Ÿ™‚

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Jill says · 01.16.14

I’ve been following your blog for a couple years now and Love it! I have 2 beautiful girls both conceived through in vitro fertilization (it took us 4 years to get pregnant with our first). I am also a Labor and Delivery nurse. Your c/s experience is very normal and right on with what we do in my hospital. Sounds completely normal and I’m glad you had a wonderful experience. Often the entire c-section surgery is about 1 hour long with the baby being born within the first 15-20 minutes and the remainder of the time being stitched back up. Thank you for sharing your experience, so many women are scared to death and so anti-c-section. Don’t get me wrong, I think vaginal is the best way to go if you can, but with your situation with a breech baby, I applaud you for not dwelling on the fact that you couldn’t have a vaginal delivery, and accepting that a c-section was what needed to happen. HOpefully your experience will help calm others’ nerves out there! Congratulations he is an adorable baby! My girls are 3 years old and 7 months.

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MegP says · 01.16.14

Thank you for posting this and for your honesty! I truly enjoy your blog, every part of it! Birth experiences are so amazing and life changing it is awesome to hear how others have done it. I’m glad you were blessed with a great experience!

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Dancing Noodle says · 01.16.14

What a great birth story, so glad you had a smooth and easy one. Kate, i saw how active you were during pregnancy, and you mentioned how much it helped with the C-section as well. What was a typical workout for you like and how often did you do it? – Laura

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Kristen516 says · 01.16.14

I am so glad that you had a great experience with your scheduled c-section. My first C-section was not really an emergency but after 12 hours of non progressing labor and actually going backwards (I went from 90% effaced to 50% and they needed to call for a pediatric catheter) they determined baby girls wasn’t come out on her own. Grace was a 9lb baby.

My second c-section was scheduled and I was fine with it. The surgery went well, but as you mentioned babies that don’t go thru labor or thru the birth canal sometimes come out junky and Ava had excess fluid in her lungs. She was put in the NICU on a CPAP machine. She also had apnea. All things they don’t tell you about scheduled c-sections.

Again, I’m so happy that David’s birth was fantastic for you! David is a beautiful little boy and you are a beautiful mom.

Kristen

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Christy says · 01.16.14

My c-section was scheduled for the same reason & our experience was a lot a like. I didn’t workout during my pregnancy so I am sure that’s why I didn’t recover as fast. The best advice I ever received for my c-section was to take my pain meds like clock work. I’m sure glad I did. Glad you’re feeling 100%.

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Bella says · 01.16.14

Thank you for sharing! I too had a very successful scheduled csection with my daughter for the exact same reason, she was nice and snug up under my ribs in a breech position. We are expecting baby #2 in the beginning of July and I will go for a repeat csection. For some strange reason though I keep getting anxiety when I think about going into the OR and them cutting…. I hope that it goes as smoothly as the first time! Congrats on your beautiful baby boy!

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Mrs. Schaaf says · 01.16.14

I had a wonderful C Section. You may look into scar massage once you are farther into healing.

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SarahinSalem says · 01.16.14

I’ve been reading your blog for a while but I’m a “lurker”. Thanks for sharing your experience. My c-section experience was difficult and I was very scared because it happened after I’d been in labor for over 32 hours. Recovery was very hard and painful. I could definitely relate to what you said about having trouble connecting the baby in your arms with the one that had been in your belly all those months. It took me a while to feel bonded/this really happened. I’m glad it was so smooth for you.

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Kinsye Tucker says · 01.16.14

Was breastfeeding for the first time hard. I am scheduled to be induced in 11 days and I am more nervous about breastfeeding than the actual labor and delivery. Maybe you should write a blog about it ๐Ÿ™‚

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One Woman says · 01.16.14

Hi! I really enjoy your blog and it has been a great help to me! And I’m so glad to hear of your positive birth experience! Congratulations on your new little bundle!

I have four kids, 1 vag, 2 sections, 1 vba2c. I have to say, I prefer a vaginal birth. As you said, it is difficult to bond with your baby because your natural God-given chemical bonding process is just simply not there. And it does happen, it just takes a little longer.

With my first, although I was scared, I was down on the floor changing diapers in a week. My first section was after a failed induction and something like 30 hours of labor. It was miserable and humbling, like you mentioned I couldn’t even pull up my own pants. My second section (because they were so close) was much more gentle. I was ready, fresh faced in full makeup. It still took weeks to recover. That’s the worst part, for me. With my fourth, five years later, after doing tons and TONS of research, I decided that no section was worth it unless there was a real emergency, as our bodies are designed by our Creator to give birth. I opted for a VBA2C. It was not without fear and trembling, but it was successful and I was up and around again within the week. Even out of bed right after! And I had an epidural! Did you know that they can give light epidurals where you can still get out of bed and walk around? I didn’t! And I think that’s how I ended up with my first section. I had not done enough research for myself. I used one book, “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” which was helpful, but not thorough. I had on rose-colored glasses, never questioning the doctor and believing all was going to go smooth as silk and “magical.”

That being said, I understand it was all in God’s plan for me.

I was also afraid after a section, that number of consequential births might be limited for me. However, I have read about women having up to nine sections!

I think no matter what kind of birth we experience, there are three things that are most important:

1. Education, education, education!
2. Faith
3. Fearlessness!!

And I stand in agreement with you, if I had to name a fourth, it would be staying active! I admit, I did’nt do that with my 2nd and third!

In hindsight, my birth ‘choices’ were made out of fear. Fear the baby was going to be too big, fear my body wouldn’t work right, and on and on. Now after my fourth, I see there is actually nothing to be afraid of – section or not! Perfect love casts out fear!

Blessings!!

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Knox's Mama says · 01.16.14

What a great story! I had my first baby as an emergency c-section. I was 10 hours into labor and he went into fetal distress. I was wheeled down the hall and they had him out within 10 mins or so. I was hysterical. I thought there was something awfully wrong. I was very happy to hear the crying baby when he was lifted out of my stomach! He was perfect! Healthy as could be. They brought him to my husband who held him cheek to cheek to my face. It was delightful! Then both my husand and son went off to be cleaned and mesaured. I did have about 45 minutes of throwing up due to them uping my epideral so fast. I was able to breastfeed as soon as that ended! I am currently 33 weeks along with my second and am going to attempt a VBAC. My main reason is that I don’t want to refrain from holding my 3 year old for 4 weeks after! I feel that God has something in store for us all and whatever happens, it happens for a reason. So I am not too stressed about what will happen! I am looking forward to meeting my little girl! Thanks for always sharing!

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Maria says · 01.16.14

Thanks for sharing! I love reading your blog and so appreciate your candidness!

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Molly Lauren says · 01.16.14

You are so lucky! David is a beautiful baby!

thelollyproject.weebly.com

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hilmo1122 says · 01.16.14

Love this and thank you for sharing. I have followed you for a while (I do all of your hair tutorials!), but I’ve never commented on anything. I am currently 36 pregnant (as of this Saturday), and looks like I’ll be able to have a vaginal delivery, fingers crossed! However, I really enjoyed reading your story. I know anything can happen, and I like you I like to be fully informed and know what to expect. I’m so glad everything went so well for you, that’s awesome! David is beautiful btw. And, I’m clearly feeling pretty emotional already because I actually teared up when I read that you cried when your Husband had to leave your side! I know I’d do the same! Congrats again, and thanks for sharing!

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Jennifer says · 01.16.14

I loved reading this. Thank you for being so open. I’m much older than you, but I do have a brand new granddaughter! My children are adults now but I appreciated your honesty when you stated that you didn’t feel very emotional the first time you held David. I felt that way with my children also. I wondered if there was something wrong with me! But I think that’s the honest assessment of how we all feel at that time. It’s a very overwhelming experience, but one that offers the ultimate reward. I started following your blog for the hair tutorials. I have the same hair as you…..and I have been doing many of the same techniques are you for many years. As you moved through your pregnancy I followed with anticipation. I think you and your hubs will be wonderful parents. Bless you all.

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Tiffany Stuart says · 01.16.14

Great positive experience! Thanks for sharing! I would love to hear about your breastfeeding journey if you don’t feel it’s too personal. I am due with my third in June and was unable to nurse with my other two due to medical reasons so I am planning to give nursing another shot and I love reading about other mom’s nursing stories!

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Shell says · 01.17.14

I loved reading such a positive birth experience thank you for sharing.

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Katie says · 01.17.14

I am always in the camp that every birth is different and with both my pregnancies I went into the whole process with an open mind and our first and foremost goal was that all of our babies came out healthy, in whichever way they needed to. With our daughter I had her vaginally with an epidural and it was a great experience. With our twin girls I had to schedule a c-section 5 weeks early because one of our girls wasn’t growing at a rate she should. While the 2nd time around went completely differently than our first birth, I wouldn’t change it for anything because it was what needed to happen to get our girls into the world safely. I commend you for your honesty and congratulations on the birth of your beautiful boy!

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Elizabeth Flater says · 01.17.14

I’d be interested to hear people’s thoughts on finding out the gender of the baby, and if that’s any different with different deliveries. We found out that for medical reasons I will have a c-section. Before that I was pretty set on finding out the gender on delivery day, but having a c-section gives me second thoughts about that. Is it different depending on what kind of birth you have?

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Elizabeth Flater says · 01.17.14

(and thank you for sharing your positive experience with a c-section!)

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Jessica says · 01.17.14

Thank you for posting about your experience. I had an emergency csection with my daughter, had a horrifying experience and had a presumed amniotic fluid embolism which landed me in icu for two days. I am very lucky to be here. I am pregnant again and can only hope my next csection ends in a story like yours! God bless you and your new baby!

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Brandi Laplante says · 01.17.14

I’m so thrilled you posted this! My first son was born via vaginal delivery and my second son was born via a planned c section because he was too large for me to deliver naturally. I told my mom about the c section and she (who has never had one) said “Why on earth would you do a c section? The recovery is terrible!” I just kept reassuring her that my doctor believed it was safest. But her reaction stuck with me and I was terrified leading up to the day he was born. My experience was very similar to yours. Very easy and pleasant. I wish I had read this before he was born to have something to calm my nerves.
In response to the post about you posting mostly “mom stuff” I have to say I’m thrilled. You are a real person blogging about your life. Don’t change a thing. You’re honest in revealing your opinions and your life and no one should give you a hard time about that. If they didn’t expect the nature of your posts to change on some degree they have unrealistic expectations.
Keep up the great work! You will NEVER EVER lose this reader right here!

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Kate says · 01.17.14

Thank you for your support!

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Susan Wright says · 01.17.14

I do not think the lady in the post was trying to give anyone a “hard time”. Like me she is not 30+ any longer and simply wanted to know how the blog was going to run in the future. I do enjoy reading the stories of babies. I have had 2 myself and I have 5 grandchildren. But I do read the blog for hair tips make up and beauty advice. The reason I like this blog is for the aformentioned reasons and because your info spans a wide variety of ages. It’s not only for younger women. That being said, I will continue to check your blog. There are still many posts that I haven’t read. I will also check out the other websites that you mentioned. Congrats on your son. A real cutie by the way. Keep up the good work and write your heart !

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KJB says · 01.17.14

Congratulations and thank you for sharing such a positive experience. My first child was born by c-section due to being breech as well. It was as easy as abdominal surgery can get with a fairly quick and smooth recovery. I’m so grateful that it wasn’t as difficult as so many others have described. Despite such a great experience, my husband and I chose to VBAC our second after much discussion with my OB and LOTS of research. It was a success. So much so, that I had a total of three VBACs. However, no matter how your baby is born, the most important aspect is a healthy baby and Mom!

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Keebee16 says · 01.17.14

I, thankfully, had an experience much like your’s. Because of the trauma from my first vaginal delivery it was in my better interest to have a c-section with my second child. It was a very good experience for me, much better than my first. I felt better, I recovered better, I got to enjoy my first few days with my child. I would certainly do it again and do not regret my decision. It’s ok to have that option and to take it!!

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Katherine @ Grass Stains says · 01.17.14

While everyone’s experience is different (I’ve given birth to four kids, and each delivery was different — three vaginal and one section), I’m so glad you shared your story. I love reading birth stories, and it was wonderful to hear yours. I hope that you received lots of encouraging words (I don’t have time to read them all!) and support, and I hope you feel free to continue to share. ๐Ÿ™‚

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Kathryn says · 01.17.14

I appreciate hearing about your c-section experience. I too had a good experience with mine as well. Mine was a different scenario because mine was an emergency c-section. I was 33 weeks pregnant and developed preeclampsia. I felt absolutely fine other than being tired…which I wrote off b/c I was 33 weeks pregnant. They kept me in the hospital for 2 days prior to my c-section ( I knew I had to have once they rushed me over to hospital from the OBGYN office) so that I could get steriod shots to strengthen my little man’s lungs since they weren’t “fully” developed. The OR was wonderful for me b/c I had been on a magnesium drip b/c my blood pressure was so high…and it made me so HOT…I remember steam coming off my arms once I was in the cold OR but I LOVED it! My little man came out screaming!! He did have to stay in the NICU for 5 weeks beacuse once of his lungs did collapse at 2 days old… LOTS of different breathing machines in those 5 weeks… Finally he made it home and is the most perfect angel God ever created!! I healed great and would definately have another c-section my my next!!

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Anna says · 01.17.14

I just want to take a moment to tell you how much I have enjoyed reading ALL of your baby posts. My husband and I are expecting our first baby, a son as well! I cannot begin to tell you how wonderful it has been to read about your journey while I am myself preparing for a baby. You have such an excellent way of sharing your experience and being sensitive to others as well. You do a fantastic job! Thank you!

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Unknown says · 01.17.14

Thank you so much for sharing. I had an emergency C-section first time round and am having a scheduled one in 3 months. I feel great about it, having heard that emergency and scheduled are like night and day. I enjoyed reading your story and like you my pain was quite minimal first time round! All the best

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Unknown says · 01.17.14

Thank you so much for sharing. I had an emergency C-section first time round and am having a scheduled one in 3 months. I feel great about it, having heard that emergency and scheduled are like night and day. I enjoyed reading your story and like you my pain was quite minimal first time round! All the best

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pkgormong says · 01.17.14

Thanks for your post! Glad it went smoothly and praise Jesus for your precious son! I had a c-section with my first and by God’s grace I was able to have a successful VBAC after being told I had a less then 50% chance with my second one. I can tell you a vaginal birth is so different! Both so rewarding but I did feel more connected with the vaginal birth. I am about to deliver my third via VBAC again and praying that it is a success once again! Again, praising Jesus for a smooth and safe delivery with David! I too had a good experience with my c-section and very thankful for the opportunity to have a VBAC! Blessings Kate!

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Leigh says · 01.17.14

Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s always good to hear others experiences. I had a scheduled c-section with my first since he was breech. We found out when I was 32 weeks and he never turned. I too had a great experience. I was scared going in (but I was scared of giving birth the natural way too). The shaking of the bed while they were taking him out was hilarious to me. My son was nestled under my left boob so it took some work. My hospital works differently than yours so I got to hold my son for just a minute after he was born; after they suctioned his lungs. I was taken from the OR back to my room for recovery, which I loved since my husband was waiting on me and they arrived with my son shortly after. The only real pain I had was going up and down stairs after I got home. And they limited me to one trip up, one trip down for 2 weeks. I didn’t really get to work out because of severe morning sickness and high blood pressure; I could only walk and no more than 15 minutes at a time. I am expecting my 2nd child this summer and have been told I could be a candidate for a VBAC. My blood pressure is too low, which is super weird considering what happened last time, so my doctor told me it will be a game time decision and not to stress.

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kvangelder says · 01.18.14

What a great post! This will come in hand for many expecting moms. Like you, my c section experience was a pretty good one overall. What bothered me the most about the whole experience was being strapped down to the operating table. It had never crossed my mind that they would have strap me down so I wasn’t expecting it to happen. It’s all worth it when you hear that beautiful cry! Congrats to you on your little guy:)

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L says · 01.18.14

I had two c-sections for two breech babies, and I too had a great experience. But something that makes me sad about your story (which is a hospital policy, not by your own choice), was removing the baby from the room immediately. That is completely awful. With both of my surgeries, I was handed the baby immediately, just as I would have if the baby was born naturally. They wrapped baby and that was that, there is absolutely no reason to remove the baby unless there’s a health concern at issue. Sure, the operating room isn’t warm, but you wrap the baby and put it with mom. I think it’s the key factor in connecting immediately to your baby, and its significance is priceless. Not faulting you, I just thought that you may want to consider a more progressive hospital or at least speak up– it’s not the way it has to be.

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Marry Mint says · 01.18.14

I appreciate your honesty about not exactly “connecting” with your son right away. I think this is something moms don’t talk about often enough. ๐Ÿ™‚
Great post!

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Whole Health Dork says · 01.19.14

Thanks so much for sharing and for your honesty. I think it’s important for these stories to be out there so that everyone knows how different the experience is for each woman and the only thing that matters about the whole thing is that mama and baby are healthy and happy. Congrats again on your beautiful family.

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Mris says · 01.20.14

Thank you for sharing your experience! I had very bad pain in my shoulder/collarbone area as well and to this day my husband still makes fun of me as I kept complaining about my shoulder like it was the end of the world! David is adorable, hope you are enjoying being a mummy.

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Molly Mommaofboys says · 01.21.14

Hello. And Congrats on your little man. I’m the proud and very busy mom of three boys. My sister in law and brother are getting ready to welcome their first boy any day. Kevin has been head down since day 1 ๐Ÿ™‚ But on her last appointment last week we turned and is now breech. She’s due Jan 23rd. She goes back on Wed for a repeat u/s to see if he’s still breech. My sissy in law says she hasn’t felt any big turns or anything. And I’m guessing he’s still breech also. She is so heart broken about getting a c/s. Just because A. Doesn’t want to get cut..I mean who does…I had vaginal deliveries for all 3. and B. she just feels like she hasn’t had time to wrap her head around it. Which I also understand… I sent her your blog to read and I have to thank you. She says this made her feel so much more comfortable about the upcoming c/s. Thank you for sharing your story. Enjoy your Mommyhood…..I love watching your videos on YouTube…XO

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SanDee says · 01.21.14

As a two-time c-section veteran, I think you gave a very accurate account of what it’s like! I will say that I have come to believe that much of it is in your attitude. My goal was to leave that hospital with a healthy baby and a healthy mommy. I kept my eye on the prize and that helped me through the recovery phase. And after some of the stories I’ve heard and read about difficult vaginal deliveries, I have come to realize that there are far worse scenarios than a c-section!

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Stephanie E says · 01.29.14

Thank you for posting this. I just found out our baby is breech last week (I am 36w and he/she was head down until last week’s 35w appointment!) and after trying all the goofy tricks to flip him/her, he/she was still breech yesterday. I am going to try acupuncture and the chiropractor this week but I cannot do an external version because of a cyst on my ovary. Needless to say, I am disappointed to not be able to deliver vaginally, but reading positive c-section experiences has been really helpful! Thank you for your honesty!

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Colleen McCloskey says · 02.18.14

Do you know how long it was after you went into the operating room that your son was born? It was 24 minutes for mine so I am curious (then about 12 more minutes until I was done) (Here is my birth story but only if you are interested. I am not just betting for page views)

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Jess and Ben says · 02.27.14

Thank you so much for this! I had a c-section with my son. It’s good to remember what happens.

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Maria Pirvu says · 03.02.14

Congratulations and thank you for sharing your story. Unfortunately, many women are discouraged from scheduling a cesarean, even if the baby is breech, or the mother suffers from severe anxiety etc. Women should have the right to make informed birth choices. To support this right, you can sign the following petition: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/prophylactic-cesarean-delivery.html

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Kelly King says · 04.23.14

Kate, I am so behind on your blog and just getting around to reading about David’s birth in detail (been keeping up with you through the FB page); I had an emergency C-Section 15 years ago with my son and I must tell you I had the exact same experience afterwards. I almost would say I was a bit “disconnected” to him as this was my first and only child so I didn’t know what to expect, my own mom had passed away, so I didn’t have anyone to tell me how to behave, feel, etc., and since I was also in distress it took me about 24 hours to even feel aware of anything that had happened! I remember the nurses said they had fed him from a cup since I was going to breast feed and I felt so sorry for him, because I had been so “out” of it with my own post-op issues. BUT, all was well and he breast-fed like a champ the next day and loooong story short, he is now 6ft. 1in. tall and weighs 185 lbs!! The oddest days of my life now are looking at this TALL MAN who once was that little boy that I didn’t even know!! haha

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Shannon says · 04.28.14

Thank you so much for this. I am trying for a VBAC but we’re now only two days from my 42 week deadline for my scheduled c-section and after a very negative emergency c-section the first time around, I really needed a positive story to hold onto. Can not thank you enough! Hope all has continued to go well for you and your family!

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Kara says · 05.23.14

Thank you so very much for sharing such an intimate experience. I am expecting our fourth baby, and for medical reasons I have agreed to a scheduled c-section. My first two were vaginal deliveries with epidurals and my third was a natural with no pain medication. Due to complications during that delivery, both my doctor and I feel the safest thing for both baby and I would be a controlled c-section. I have to admit, I’m frightened. Everything I’ve been reading has been horrid and created more fear than I already had regarding the procedure. I am praying and believing for an experience like what you had. I appreciate very much your transparency and your post full of hope! I think I’ll be ending my internet search and rather head to The Word. ๐Ÿ™‚ Blessings to you, Justin (my hubby’s name too!), and your sweet David.

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Alice says · 06.15.14

Thank you so much for posting this! I’m currently 30 weeks with my second baby and have been told to prepare for a c-section as he is extended breech. I was actually crying 10 minutes ago after reading other people’s experiences with c-section which are all very negative, it has made me feel so much better reading someone’s positive experience and has calmed my nerves alot! Also thanks for mentioning about the catheter being inserted, noone else seeems to have mentioned this and I was very curious about whether you could feel it being inserted or not.

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Jennifer says · 08.11.14

I was worried about the catheter too, as I was out the first time I had one. The docs said I wouldn’t feel it, but it’s nice to hear someone else’s experience. Also, I had my catheter out as soon as I could really go on my own, fill the bag to a certain point. Where I’m having my next csection, they say 24 hours…(I did have to use a bed pan for quite some time after I had it out the first time. Where as they anticipate that I will be able to walk to the bathroom on my own after 24 hours. Different policies, and something to ask if you are concerned. However, I’m starting to feel like not asking is just fine too! Skip the anxiety and deal with it when you need to!

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jason says · 07.01.14

We just had an un scheduled c section, its been about 52 hours and our baby has developed jondis. So we would have gone home today but baby needs to be on a UV bed.
So today we have had quite a few nurses and doctors see us and I have been laying next to her ever since but at about 12am a new nurse came in not knowing much about our situation and straight away started talking down to us with a fake smile and demanded I get out of the bed. My wife is dead set against it and so am I. But who is wrong here?
They have a small chair here that im apparently supposed to sleep on, or drive 75km back home.
Who is right and who is wrong?

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Jennifer says · 08.11.14

My first csection was an emergency one. I am due to have my second one, but to be awake this next Monday. I appreciate this post, as my first experience wasn’t the best birthing experience, but it all sorted out. I have to admit that I too had the awkward moment when I first met my daughter….expecting something earth moving! But within hours the bonding started….after all, I had come off general anesthesia. But I wasn’t ready to hold her when they were ready to give her to me. I was pretty foggy still. I am nervous about my upcoming procedure because I will be awake his time. I get very anxious about medical procedures even though I feel the doctors and nurses are more than competent. I hate IVs, needles, etc. I am almost dreading a needle over the csection recovery. I will also admit that I had so much more going on with my first pregnancy and birth, that for some reason, I didn’t want to take the pain meds. I think I might have had some sort of weird guilt thing going for not being able to deliver vaginally…not being able to breastfeed, that I refused to take pain meds…which just complicated things more, and made recovery more tough, especially after laboring for over 48 hours. Recently another mom recommended to me to make sure and get as much rest as possible and take the recommended pain meds. I’m so glad this article talked about that. Even if I experience some minor stressors on delivery day next week, I’m so glad I read this article and now know that for many women, things go just fine. And it can too for me. I was also told that the anesthesiologist can give something to take the nerves down a few notches as soon as baby is out. So for those going into this first time, it seriously only takes a few minutes for the spinal to work and typically less than ten minutes to get the baby out…took less than a minute with our first…so, if you are an overly anxious person like myself, if you can get through just a few minutes, you can check out after baby is born. Don’t feel guilty if that’s what you need. Great read. Thank you so much for writing this blog!

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margarita says · 08.26.14

omg, our last child was 16 years ago. my first c cection was an urgent one and it was an awesome expirience. but my second one i went in there so confident that it was a piece of cake……omg!!!! i was, the first time in labor for almost 2 days without dialating so that spinal after those almost two days felt quite good!!! it was the best relief i’ve ever ever had.
when i had my second one however wasn’t what i thought would be again let me repeat OMG!!!!! spinal??? bring it on! haaaa, i still 16 years later have not gotten over how painful that spinal felt with out being in labor and super strong contraction every minuteeeeee! now im going to my third c cection and simply terrified of what’s to come.. what can i do or ask for so that it doesn’t hurt as bad as it did the last time.??? please i need light, i’m only almost 4 months but started doing my homework starting today as to what can i do.. i have butterflies in my stomack thats not normal at 40 yo.. please help!! thanks in advanced

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saranya anand says · 08.27.14

HI,
even i had a c-section because my son was on breech…but my experience was horrible since i had lot of pain post delivery and my son never took my milk…finally i end up meeting laction consultant took some tablets for increasing milk supply again that tablet(PERINORM induced extraprymidal effects)on me…now iam post delivery 10 month with severe neurological effects as well as sever pain in my incision if i lift my son from floor…pregnancy was very sweet experience for me although delivery is not…..if life is like a tape i just wantto rewind everything and change delivery to normal delivery…and breast feeding immediatly after childbirth…..i want my body and life back…because i love both very very much………………. ๐Ÿ™

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Egersdorf says · 08.27.14

I love what you guys are up too. This type of clever work and exposure! Keep up the good works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to blogroll.

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Sri says · 09.11.14

Thanks a lot for writing this post, I am on my 35th week and I too know that i am going to have a c section, i am excited and nervous, reading your experience is such a relief and piece of encouragement for me.

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Rena Taylor says · 09.14.14

Thank you so much for writing this. I am scheduled to have a c section on September 29th because my baby boy is breech. So many people have suggested that I try to let the doctor flip the baby or wait because he may flip on his own. Most of those suggestions are followed by stories of emergency c sections that had to be performed due to the baby being in distress. I really wanted to have a vaginal delivery but I do not want to put my baby at risk. Reading this really helped to put my mind at ease regarding the whole process. THANK YOU!!!

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Annie says · 09.16.14

Dear Kate,

Thank you so much for writing this post! It’s such a personal story for you to share, and sharing it so openly, regardless of possible negative responses or criticism, is courageous in itself. I didn’t read any of the negative Facebook comments, but it boggles the mind how mean some people can be. Of course you are allowed to tell your story and share the feelings that went along with it! It’s your blog, your life, and I for one think sharing this story is pretty danged generous and great of you.

I’ve been following your blog for years, and I am now pregnant with our first, a boy, due in early November. We are beyond exited to meet him, my pregnancy has been a total dream, and baby and I are both healthy. I already love him to bits! However, at 34 weeks, the baby is breech and seems pretty intent on staying that way. At our latest appointment, our doctor said we should schedule a c-section. It is such tough news to hear, and such a huge thing for a woman or a couple to wrap her/their heads around, especially after envisioning a natural, unmedicated birth for so many months prior to this news. A C-section? After such a healthy, wonderful pregnancy, with such an active baby? Quite the surprise.

Anyway, I think things happen for a reason, I now that I’ve read your c-section post, I’ve come to the conclusion that maybe God allowed me to find your blog years ago for this very reason, so that today I could find and read this very post, and begin to feel more positively about having a c-section, a scenario I never realistically considered before this week.

After being upset and teary for quite a few days over the c-section news, your post has given me SO MUCH encouragement. Thank you, thank you, thank you for so openly, kindly and bravely describing your experience. I think this post may be the thing that has helped me turn the corner and view our situation in a more hopeful light. To me, you’re a hero, Kate! You made me feel so much better. I’m so glad you and your baby (and your husband!) pulled through it so well.

I wish you and your beautiful family health and happiness, and many, many thanks,

Annie

PS-And just a little side note, thanks for recommending Aquage Uplifting Foam so long ago- that stuff is great! ๐Ÿ™‚

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fotografo reportage matrimonio milano says · 10.10.14

Spot on with this write-up, I actually think this website needs far morre attention. I’ll
probably be back again to ssee more, thanks for the info!

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Hope vaughn says · 11.13.14

Thank you for sharing your story! This makes me feel so much better about my upcoming c section. My son is scheduled for a c section in 12 days because he is and has been breech throughout the entire pregnancy. I was so terrified at the thought of having a c section at first but I’m thankful that I know now that is what I will be having because I’m able to mentally prepare myself for it. I’m like you, I want to be completely aware of what’s going on during the surgery. I don’t wanna be doped up on meds. I’m glad to hear that you had that choice and that you were aware throughout your surgery. My surgery will be at 12:30 on a Tuesday, when do you think get will take my catheter out and allow me to walk? Will it be at noon the next day? I’m just curious.

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Niki says · 02.05.15

My orthopedic surgeon, family doctor, and physiotherapist are all recommending that I have a c section, due to repeated back trauma and spinal fractures and slipped discs. But my obgyn is against doing one. She actually spent my last appointment telling me horror stories about c sections. Like one woman who died of a blood clot, and another who had to have the skin from her stomach amputated due to infection. Why would she tell a pregnant woman who is already scared to death these graphic stories. When I asked her what could we do to protect my back during a vaginal birth ( different birthing positions, pain meds, having a physio in the room to keep my spine and pelvis in alignment ect ) she told me that she didn’t know, and that would be decided during labor. When I pointed out that since all my doctors thought that my back was bad enough to warrant a c section, that if we went for a vaginal birth, we have to assume that it would not be a normal delivery and my back would be affected, and that I would like to prepare for that, and know that everything is being done to prevent more slippage, and possible spinal surgery after. She told me that the nurses would take care of me, and they would make decisions during labor. When I asked if my records could be sent to a different hospital for a second opinion, she actually started yelling at me, then walked out of the room. I was up all night freaking out that I would either die or be horribly disfigured during a c section, or end up paralyzed from a vaginal birth. I feel like women in Canada are punished if they want a child and have any preexisting medical conditions. I truly wish I could have a pleasant experience like yours. I have been so scared that I have been unable to bond with my unborn son, since everytime I think about my pregnancy, I get so anxious, I start throwing up. I am 29 weeks along and feel like time is running out.

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regan says · 02.18.15

I’m so sorry you’re going through that – but honey, get a c-section. I have a spinal compression from a car accident – carrying alone put my back into spasms so I knew I was going to have labor issues. (not to mention every woman for the last 4 generations has had horrible 20 hour plus labors that ended in surgery for 3 and unconsciousness for one!) So with my condition and family history, when I found myself pregnant and in Japan due to a work relocation – I sought clinics and hospitals that offered epidurals, thinking at least I could go with pain management and if things went wrong, a c-section.

Turns out Japan is one of those countries that you have to somehow “qualify” for an epidural. My back injury wasn’t “bad enough” to warrant one – so said my doctor. I go into labor, induced.., because my doctor for reasons yet not fully explained to my satisfaction decided that 32 weeks on the button and only 1cm of dilation must mean my baby has to come out now!!!

never mind that she’s healthy, never mind that my placenta shows no sign of withering, and never mind that the baby is in position but hasn’t dropped at all and my cervix is still tight and hard. She just scares me to death with “fetal death” stories and schedules me the next week to induce…using drugs that are no longer used in the US. I protested. I questioned. I got brow beat by my doctor into an induction that went horribly wrong. I showed no response save to dilate to 4cm over 2 days, then had 34-50 second contractions rolling in 2 minutes apart like clockwork…without the baby dropping and no further dilation.

My doctor wanted to “wait and see” 48 hours at this point in time, because they don’t like to schedule surgeries on the weekend (and it was Friday). I point out that I have had no doctor tending me up until this time, only nurses…my husband and I were left in a “labor room” alone unless someone came to do a pelvic check at the top of every hour. And that’s it. No explanation. No telling me if the rapid contractions I was suffering were normal, healthy, going to get worse/better/stop, or even if I was actually in labor or just reacting to the drug!! They took me off the drug at 5pm on Friday, told me they’d wait and see ‘what I did” over the weekend…and I’m in agony… but no so much as a tylenol was offered. They just don’t offer pain management here – it’s not culturally done in Japan. And I’m 30 minutes out of Tokyo in a major city in a modern facility yet I wasn’t even offered to much as a hot compress to help me out even though I begged!

Obviously, I panicked. Not knowing if what was happening was normal or would get better and hating myself for letting my doctor push me into a procedure I wasn’t sure was necessary or wanted (as it bucked against everything I had ever been told by my stateside doctor prior to my move)….yes. I wound up with a c-section and oddly…the epidural my doctor and hospital had denied me was what was used as a local.

So I suffered the two days of induction attempts before the 5 hours of rapid contractions with a failure to descend, was diagnosed as being taken to the OR with “arrested labor” and wound up getting a surgery I didn’t want….all because I was a coward and wouldn’t stand up to being essentially bullied by a medical professional.

Now, after the fact, I’m really struggling with guilt. I’d wanted the birth experience. I’d wanted to have my husband with me when our daughter came into the world on 2-13-15, I wanted to hold her right away, nurse right away…the works. But policy here? No husbands and because of the epidural, they just took her right to the nursery, cleaned her, gave her a bottle and I didn’t even get to touch her for 2 days!!!

Don’t be like me. Hindsight, I’m glad I had the csection because of the pain, but dealing with the guilt and feeling ashamed of myself (which I know is dumb) for not being able to deliver naturally??? So not worth it. I wish to god I’d just told that doctor what I thought of her opinion and gone for a second doctor – it might not have made any difference with Japan’s fairly backwards thinking regarding labor and pain management and the rights of the mother – but at least I wouldn’t be kicking myself for being bullied by a doctor.

Stand up for yourself! Do everything you can to make it right by you and trust the rest to work itself out – better to try and fail than feel guilty over not trying at all.

And don’t be afraid of the c-section. I didn’t even want one and with all the horrible after of it like not being able to immediately bond with my daughter thanks to the crap policies of this hospital, the procedure was a breeze and I haven’t even taken pain medications in my recovery period. You’ll be fine!

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Amber says · 03.23.15

Thank you so much for posting this!! My first delivery was vaginal, but it was nothing close to the normal vaginal delivery you hear about. I had to be induced because I was leaking amniotic fluid. After about twelve hours in pitocin, I had dilated to ten..yay! (At about six or seven, I got my epidural.). Well here comes the complicated part, so…my stomach wasn’t contracting like it should, so baby was staying super high and not decending. With each push, she stayed up there. My dr said that I needed to feel everything in order to get her moving, so he decided to turn off my epidural. Now I’m in full fledged, unanticipated pain! My pushes, however, are becoming more effective, but Im in so much pain I’m losing my mind. (Forgot to mention that he also only gave me one hour to push, and then he was going to do a csection.). Now I’m freaking out, and I’m in so much pain but trying to get her out before my time limit is up. I finally get her out, but there was so much extensive damage that it took about 45 minutes and a running stitch to see me back up!! I had fourth degree lacerations which are through the vagina and into the rectum, which all had to be reconstructed!! I had to be on stool softeners for about four months, and I even had pain during sex for about a year! My dr said that I have the option with this delivery to schedule a csection because of the damage from my last delivery and the chances of it reoccurring. If I were to tear that bad again, he said I would have issues with urinary and fecal incontinence! I’m way too young to poo on myself in town with two young children!! So…naturally I have scheduled my csection, and it’s actually going to be in about eight days if he doesn’t come sooner. Thank you for all of your encouraging words! I’ve been very nervous, but I keep telling myself that it cannot be worse than what I experienced last time!! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Penelope says · 04.21.15

Thank you so much for posting this! My 1st delivery was vaginal and it was so perfect and effortless, when I found out today at 39 weeks I would be having a cesarean because baby had decided to turn heads up again and was breech I was very disappointed as I was hoping for a other perfect vaginal delivery! As the day went by i finished doing a couple things I needed to do before my cesarean and the more I though about it the more nervous and emotional i was getting, i started looking for something to read online about c sections and how it is, how it feels, after searching for some stuff i came across your post and i’m so happy i decided to read it. I know my experience might not be as great tomorrow, but maybe it will..we’ll see..i’m just happy that i feel more calm now and a little more confident about the whole thing. So thank you again for sharing your experience. I can now see this situation from another perspective ๐Ÿ™‚

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Rachel says · 05.04.15

I had my son 8 months ago, also by c – section and it was so easy, I was allowed to hold him after they’d done his apgar and fed him as soon as we were back into the room. Being one of those lucky first time mommies, he never cried and slept constantly. So I slept almost the entire first day and only woke to feed him. By the second day I was off my pain meds and walking around with a little bit of stiffness. The greatest advice I can give to anyone who has a c – section is get moving as soon as you can. I was doing sit ups by the end of the week while some could barely walk. Get up and get moving, you’ll save yourself a lot of pain.

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Meg says · 07.01.15

I came across your blog when searching for information on planned/scheduled c-section. I am 32 weeks and my ultrasound confirmed a complete previa, so my Obgyn has scheduled a c-section at 37 weeks. I have been getting so many sorry and worried looks from family and friends, as if having a c-section was a bad thing. I needed some positivity regarding it, glad I stumbled upon your blog! ๐Ÿ™‚

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Carol Ann says · 07.21.15

Hi Kate!

I am 37 weeks with my first baby. We are having a boy. You make being a “boy mom” look so special and fun.

We found out yesterday during our sonogram that he is breech. I was devastated when i saw it! I have been praying, asking God for a peace about this situation. This morning I remembered that you had your babies via c-section, I quickly searched your blog for a post about it. Reading your birth story REALLY encouraged me! I just wanted to say thank you for that.

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Kate says · 07.21.15

I’m so glad! Be encouraged–it’s not that bad!

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Christina says · 12.14.15

Hello- We have a C Section Recovery Kit for women, with a soft cotton band and massage DVD for self help- Check us out http://www.csectionrecoverykit.com
Thanks

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Lana says · 12.23.15

Thank you so much for this post. I am currently almost 39 weeks along with my first baby, who happens to be breech. I was against an ECV as my midwives and the OB i consulted with did not feel it was likely to be successful given my tight abdominal muscles. I also did not want to impose any risk to my baby. I have a csection scheduled in 2 weeks and have been a little nervous about (even though i’m a nurse!!). This post put me more at ease. Thank you!!

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Beth Kiely says · 03.27.16

http://www.selfishmother.com/expect-the-unexpected/
I really enjoyed reading your blog. I also had a planned csection because my baby was breech and have written about my experience because it was so different to what I had hoped for with a natural birth. It was really encouraging to read about how you shared many of the thoughts and experiences that I did, particularly the importance of hearing the first cry (I was also worried my baby would have fluid in her lungs/respiratory problems) and wasn’t overcome with emotion in the way I thought I would be. Like you, it wasn’t all a negative experience though and those emotions came along in time. Thanks for sharing

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christina says · 03.27.16

Hello

Thank you for sharing your story. You are so lucky you have all that support. I had an emergency c section and it was really traumatizing. As part of my healing I developed a kit for recovery, and it includes massage and binding for a better recovery. Getting out of bed is easy when you wear a binder. Ours are cotton. Massaging the incision and surrounding area is very important after surgery so that it heals well, smaller and softer, with fewer side effects. Check out my site http://www.csectionrecoverykit.com Thanks Christina

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Jaime says · 04.03.16

I read this when you first posted, but I’ve been consulting it here and there the past couple weeks. I was put on hospital bed rest and awaiting a planned and hopefully calm c-section in a few days. Your story is putting me at ease. Thanks for sharing it!

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Melody says · 06.08.16

Thank you so much for posting this! I am going to be having my 2nd C-Section in 10 weeks this one is scheduled however my first was a emergency. I am not sure why but I am absolutely terrified of the worst! My first C-Section was a breeze so I don’t know why but I’m trying to stay positive and read positive things instead of all the bad!!

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christina hemming says · 06.08.16

HI Meloday- I just visited a friend yesterday with her new baby and she was wearing our belly belt, and strap, and it really helped her, move and walk in less pain….please check out our site http://www.csectionrecoverykit.com 808 572 0440 Thanks and all the best

I asked the Dr if they were putting the cotton in the vagina and then wiping face and mouth with bacteria, to help build digestion and immune system- she said she heard about it- please inform your Dr of how you want to be stictched, cleaned up and holding baby now with the Gentle approach- you deserve it!

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jaakara harar says · 07.09.16

I’m pregnant with twins right now. As far as pack n’ plays go, we wanted to use the bassinet part of the pack n’ play to put the babies in at night for the first little bit and have that next to our bed. (that’s what a lot of my friends who have babies have done) Unfortunately I was just reading that the weight limit for the bassinet is only 15 pounds, so it doesn’t look like that will be an option with twins because they’ll outgrow that weight limit pretty fast. I’m wondering what you twin mamas used to sleep your babies in for the first little bit if you kept them by your bed, and if any of you used the bassinet part of the pack n’ play with twins.

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Shona says · 08.19.16

Thank you for this! I have no living children (I’ve been pregnant before, but went into premature labor before viability each time) and I’ll be having a c-section in October. Reading about the experiences of others all I can up until then! It really helps to put my mind at ease knowing what to expect.

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Sarah says · 02.03.17

Late comment!! I wanted to thank you for writing this post. I am having a scheduled c-section on Tuesday and wanted to read a more personal experience than many of the info websites provide. I remembered you had had a c-section and searched for it. Thank you for being open and honest with your readers, and know that it helps others years down the road too!

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Kim says · 02.08.17

Thank you so much for this. This is my first, and although it’s been a smooth pregnancy, my little guy is breech and I will be going through this very same thing. I’ve never been particularly afraid of a c section, but I know the recovery makes things difficult. I’m so glad to hear that yours has been so smooth. It truly makes me feel less nervous about the operation.

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Carrie Lea says · 02.15.17

I had an unplanned c-section and my only suggestion is this: fight for every second that you can have skin-to-skin contact with that baby as soon as possible. I mean EVERY second. I feel like a bystander to my own birthing experience because I did not get to see him come out, no skin-to-skin as they sewed me up and revived him from fluid in the airways, etc. He is fine and healthy and for that I am grateful, but our bond still suffers a little bit as far as I’m concerned, even to this day at 7 months post partum, because we were robbed of a “real birth.” It is what it is, but had I known, I would have made demands. Love to you all!

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Christina says · 02.15.17

Yes, skin to skin is important for 2 reasons:
It stimulates Oxytocin which increases bonding…
and it exposes baby to bacteria on skin for immune system: If you include
Clear drape during surgery
Swab in vagina, then rubbing on babys face and in mouth for bacterial exposure- This increases both digestive and immune systems!
Plus ask the DR to delay cord cutting by 2 minutes….
Then use a belly band like the C Section Recovery Kit for your improved recovery and mobility. All the best

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Paloma says · 03.28.17

Thank you so much for this article. I am having a cesarean this fall and I have never been able to read a play by play like this. It helps prepare mentally. Xoxo

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Hannah says · 04.27.17

Thank you for posting this! I had an emergency caesarean 7 months ago and it’s really nice to read your experience of a scheduled one! If anybody is wondering what an emergency experience is like, have a read of my story! http://mumlifenewbog.blogspot.com/2017/04/emergency-c-section-experience.html

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Nikki says · 05.24.17

That was so thorough and thank you for posting! Even though this will be my sixth c section, I am going through the same kind of anticipation of a novice! Not to mention that I’m nervous about having so many surgeries. But I remember it just as you said which made me also remember that its all going to be okay. I’m real antsy and excited. I deliver in 33 days.

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Sydney Edie says · 07.07.17

Thank you so much for posting your experience! Mine was almost identical to yours, Jackson was breech and very happy with it. We actually tried the version but would not do it again if this one ends up being breech. No way, no how. I remember having that same collar bone pain and man did that hurt! It made me feel like I was going to throw up it was so uncomfortable. I also can relate to the awkward first few days and just being in total shock that he was here and I was responsible for him! I too had a pretty easy recovery and was only on motrin by the last day in the hospital. I do remember trying to do too much what I got home and my scar burning. This time around I am having my mom come up to stay with us for a week so she can be with Jackson while we’re in the hospital and also to make sure I take it easy and not over-do it again once we’re home. I am currently 19wks with our second and have decided on having a repeat c-section. Not saying it will be the same experience as the first but I am very comfortable with what to expect and have total confidence in my doctor. A lot of people have said that by not doing a VBAC I am robbing myself of the “miracle of birth” and even with Jackson I received so much negative feedback because I wouldn’t “just try” for a breech vaginal birth. All I can say is that I did, and will be doing again, what’s best for my baby and myself. No one has to agree with it, but in my opinion a c-section is just as much a “miracle” as any and c-section moms, planned or emergency, are strong and brave as hell. I’m proud of my scar or “kangaroo pouch” as I call it and stand by anyone making the best decision for themselves and their little ones.

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Leah says · 09.02.17

Thanks for posting this. I just found out my baby is breech at 36 and unlikely to flip. I’m having a scheduled c section in few weeks – it’s my 4th child, 1st c section. I was really disappointed and nervous at first, but reading experiences like yours helped put my mind at ease!

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Nic says · 02.18.18

This post is from some time ago but still helps me prepare for what I feel is my nightmare. I realize a planned surgery is much better than emergency but Iโ€™m still grieving the loss of an experience (true labor and delivery). Thanks so much.

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Hagar says · 07.19.18

Congrats! Thanks for sharing your experience I have a scheduled c section in a few days because my baby didnโ€™t engage and Iโ€™m almost 38 weeks pregnant and hypertensive. So my doctor decided on a C section. I am so nervous about it as well as being nervous about the spinal too. I was hoping to have a vaginal delivery which didnโ€™t happen. I am so worried about the surgery complications as well as the wound healing and scaring. Wanted to leave you a comment to let you know how your post has calmed me somehow.

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Jessica L. says · 10.10.18

Thank you for this.

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Sarah says · 02.27.19

Thank you for this positive post. I am expecting my baby in March and reading your story makes me hopeful that even if it is a C- Section I would be at ease. I am physically and mentally prepared for it. Initially, I was terrified that what if it is a C-Section, but now I am just ready for my baby either through C-Section or through Vaginal Delivery. Hearing positive stories helps us all in good ways. It is really nice to see such an honest outlook on the whole thing. Just to suggest a page that I was reading on whattoexpect contains excellent information and guidance about C-Section (Cesarean Section). I’m sure this article will be helpful for allโ€ฆ

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Dimity Houston says · 05.15.19

Your story will help many pregnant ladies like me. Thank you so much for posting this. It’s necessary for a pregnant lady to acquire knowledge for various procedures of delivery. Here I would like to suggest the readers another article “Having a C-Section (Cesarean Section)” that I have found on WhatToExpect while reading on many other online information. This article is really good and information is up to date. This will be helpful for the pregnant ladies yet to deliver.

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Amanda Peterson says · 03.11.20

This was SO helpful! I am deciding between a version and straight c-section, and I found this very informative. It helped calm my nerves a bit!

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Mahreen says · 05.11.20

Please tell me after c section how long did it take for you to feel your legs ?? Am so nervous about this as i will be having mine in coming days ??

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