My C-Section Story

My daughter was born via an emergency C-section on 12 February 2020. I was 37 weeks and 5 days when I had her....

I always wanted to have a C-section for the sole reason that it's less traumatic. Having seen a number of deliveries, both vaginal and caesarean, during internship while pursuing my MBBS degree, I made up my mind that I would never go for a vaginal delivery if given a choice. 

Caesarean section was an important essay question in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OBG). As a medical graduate, I was aware of the pros and cons of the procedure. I had all the theoretical and practical knowledge, but I didn't have an inkling of a mother's POV until I was on the OT table. 

A couple of days before the D-Day, I started experiencing painful contractions that would last for a minute or so. There was nothing to worry as I could appreciate fetal movements and my check up went on great. 

On 11th February, I was at work when I started experiencing a leak... which I thought was probably urine. My obstetrician (who is also a close friend and batchmate of my husband) suggested to get a scan done since I wasn't willing to get myself examined. The ultrasound scan showed adequate amniotic fluid volume. 

Obviously, I was relieved. I wasn't mentally prepared to deliver so soon. I had a number of unfinished tasks that had to be done before the baby arrived... The apartment required cleaning, items required for the baby had to be packed in my hospital bag (I'd already finished packing my stuff, the previous week.. Thank God, I did!), a visit to the beauty parlour was necessary and my maternity photoshoot was scheduled for the evening that day. 😅

My obstetrician asked me to see if I was leaking again and inform her immediately if I did. I am glad she gave me some time before taking me up for C-section. Thanks to her, I managed to get my maternity shoot done atleast! 😂

The next day, I continued to experience a leak and this time it was more than just a dribble. I tried avoiding the speculum examination again... The idea of getting a speculum done has never been fascinating! 🥺

My obstetrician together with my husband tried their best to convince me till I finally agreed. We drove to the hospital around 6.30pm. I had nothing with me other than my medical records. The amniotic leak was confirmed. I had to be posted for a C-section immediately since it had been more than 24 hours that I first experienced the leak. 

The consent forms were signed and my section was scheduled for 7.30 pm.

I was overwhelmed with so many thoughts as I was being prepared for the surgery. I wished my mom was there. She was supposed to fly down to India the next week. 

I got into a gown and waited to be pushed into the theatre. My heart galloped like a horse, the whole time, I was in the pre-operative room.

As mentioned earlier, I have attended several surgeries as well as C-sections during my internship… And it was always exciting! But the feeling of undergoing a surgery is totally different … especially if its your first time! I was scared alright… But I also wanted to be done with the pregnancy and see my baby finally.

I was at ease when I was finally wheeled to the OT and saw familiar faces around me. The two obstetricians and the pediatrician that were present, happen to be my seniors from the medical college I graduated from. My husband had scrubbed in too. 

Following spinal anaesthesia, my body went totally lifeless from waist below in a matter of few minutes. Before I knew it, the section had already began... And the baby was out at 8.04 pm! She weighed 2.7 kgs at birth. 😄

The baby was removed and quickly taken to another room for assessment and cleaning. 

My husband who vowed to be with me in good and bad times, in sickness and health; suddenly disappeared to check out his little princess. 😂

The baby was brought to me while my abdomen was still being sutured. It was truly love at first sight... Obviously, one sided since her eyes were closed! 😂 She was then taken away. 

My section ended and I was shifted to the post-op room. That night, my daughter was looked after by the nurses as our families weren't around. 

I found it difficult to fall asleep that night. Everything seemed surreal. The thought that I finally gave birth to a child was slowly sinking in...

The anaesthesia soon wore off. I could wriggle my toes and move my legs. The excrutiating pain slowly started kicking in. I felt like I was being stabbed in the abdomen over and over again. By the time I got used to the sensation, I passed out in the wee hours of morning. 

Breastfeeding your newborn within the first hour or so, following birth, is important. However, I managed to breastfeed only when I woke up. 

I was shifted to my room at noon and was happy to see my two favourite people there -  my hubby and daughter! And yes... My hubby did manage to get my hospital bag and few essential items required for the baby, from home! 😉

So that was my C-Section story....! In my next post, I will be sharing useful tips on what to expect before, during and after a C-section.