C-Section Birth Stories: Aleka Smith

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

My daughter was breech throughout my entire pregnancy and still had not flipped when my water broke naturally at 37 weeks.

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

I was surprised at how much like a failure of a mother and woman I felt afterward. Deep down, I knew it truly didn't matter - my daughter was healthy and so was I. But I was bitter for weeks at my body for not "doing what it was supposed to do." I never imagined I would feel like that, but I did, and it affected me greatly.

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

My family drove 8.5 hours the weekend after she was born to make freezer meals for us and my mom stayed for a month to help my husband and me adjust. He is a medical resident and wasn't able to take off more than 5 days. Our friends left meals at our house and the abundance of cards and gifts was incredible.

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

Do not rush into things or your old self. It is easier to say than do, but rest, relax and recover. Your baby needs you healthy and strong and your mental health needs it too.

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

I look at my scar and see strength as a woman and mother. I see the medical professionals who ultimately saved my daughter's life and mine because otherwise, we may not be here. I feel like childbirth isn't for the faint of heart no matter how it happens, and I am proud of my body for what it did.

Name: Aleka Smith

Your Profession: Social Worker

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