C-Section Birth Stories: Abigail Granner

1. Please share the circumstances that led to your c-section birth(s):

I found out my baby girl was breech at 37 weeks. I remember feeling completely shocked: I thought breech babies were so rare! I tried to act calm in front of my doctor as she explained my options, but as soon as I left the office I sat in my car and cried. I had hired a doula for a vaginal birth, I had carefully modified all of my workouts to protect my core and pelvic floor, and I had eaten (relatively) healthy. I felt like I had done everything in my power to keep my body strong and prepare it for labor. To have a c-section felt like I did all that work for nothing. Even though I wasn’t planning for a medication-free birth, I wasn’t expecting surgery. Honestly, having a c-section was my biggest fear.

Determined to flip my baby, I went to the hospital for an ECV (external cephalic version) at 38 weeks. It was so uncomfortable and painful that I passed out. Then, my baby's heart rate became erratic. I insisted we try again because I truly didn’t want a c-section. But my OBGYN held my hand and kindly said, “Honey, we don’t have to do this again. I can deliver your baby next week, safely, in surgery. I promise.” I scheduled my c-section right away for 39 weeks with the same doctor. I resigned myself to the situation, but I also felt some relief.

2. What surprised you the most about having a c-section?:

Having a c-section was more difficult and yet much easier than I imagined. The surgery was quicker than I anticipated; the medical staff was kind, calm, and quick. My baby girl was laid on my chest - while I was on the operating table - minutes after she was born. Also, I was able to have my doula AND my husband in the operating room with me. (I think this was partly due to my c-section being planned).

However, I wasn’t prepared for the strange tugging sensations and smells during surgery and the pain of standing up for the first time a mere 7 hours post-op. Also, after the c-section, I felt frustrated having to make modifications for basic movements like getting in/out of bed or getting in/out of a chair. But, these modifications helped my core heal and saved me from extra pain.

3. What kind of support do you feel you received (from friends, family, healthcare team) after your c-section(s)?:

Honestly, I think our postpartum healthcare is severely lacking in America. My OBGYN’s office took great care of me during my pregnancy but was rather pathetic in supporting me postpartum. I had a standard 2-week postpartum exam and another at six weeks and that was it.

My husband was an amazing source of support during those first few weeks post-op. I don’t know how I would have cared for myself or my baby without him. Luckily he had paternity leave, so he changed most of the baby’s diapers and lifted the baby in/out of the crib while I couldn’t. He also made it his mission to keep me well fed and hydrated.

I reached out to friends who were c-section warriors for their tips, tricks, and solidarity. (It’s so nice to have people who just get it and who also love those special high-waisted postpartum undies). In a crazy coincidence, my little sister also gave birth just two days after me. Even though we gave birth differently, we were able to talk all the time which was such a blessing. We constantly texted each other (and still do!) about breastfeeding, body changes, and our babies. I believe we’ve both gained a beautiful perspective about birth. Though she gave birth vaginally and I gave birth via cesarean, we both learned neither birth was “easier.” We both had our own set of challenges and struggles.

4. What’s your #1 piece of advice/encouragement for a new c-section mom?:

However you feel about your baby’s birth into the world is okay. It is your story and your experience, no one else’s. I look back and realize that on the day of my c-section, all I was thinking about was “this big surgery” and not the day my daughter would be born. And you know what? That’s okay. It’s what helped me get through it. I love my little girl and I am so happy that I chose the safest way for her to be born. Also, I’m proud of my warrior scar because it’s a reminder of what I’ve survived and what I was rewarded with - my precious daughter. (Recently, I’ve started calling my c-section scar my daughter’s “escape hatch” haha!)

Also, please know you WILL heal. It will take time and patience but you WILL get there. There are many incredible resources to help women heal postpartum. Personally, I used a postpartum guide from Expecting and Empowered. Their postpartum guide is tailored for both c-section and vaginal births, and it helped me recover safely and regain strength.

5. How do you believe having a c-section birth(s) made you stronger?:

I feel extremely resilient after my c-section. I feel like I can tackle ANYTHING. Now, when I’m faced with a difficult situation I think, “Well, I’ve been through a c-section, so I can do this.” I also feel mentally and physically stronger and more empathetic towards women who’ve given birth, especially via cesarean. If mamas aren't the strongest force of nature, what is?

Name: Abigail Granner

Your Profession: Freelancer Writer/SAHM

How to Connect With You on Social Media: @abigailjoyg on Instagram