C-Section Birth Stories: Brittany Reid Barratt

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

With total honesty, but without sounding too scary or dramatic, our decision to deliver by c-section was in place well before pregnancy, following previous extremely traumatic smears, examinations, and tests. The safest route for myself and our baby - both mentally and physically - was a c-section delivery. We came up against some scrutiny from my consultant during the planning stage. I won't lie, it almost felt like they wanted to ask "why did you get pregnant then?" and simply couldn't understand how affected I had been by my previous experiences, even just putting 'mild anxiety in my notes. But my midwife and mental health consultant were absolutely incredible. They actually advocated the c-section because they wanted me to have a positive birthing experience. I find myself quite saddened by comments such as "easy way out" or "why would you unless absolutely necessary?". We all have different necessities! But mostly, I'd like all parents and future parents to recognize that no birth is 'easy' but that they are all magical, empowering, and just plain wonderful.

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

The humor in the theatre (operating room)! Our surgeon was so casual about things, which surprised me as I thought the whole situation would be highly clinical. But he and the rest of the surgical team put me at ease. My anesthetist was probably the best, keeping the whole situation as calm as possible. The other surprise was how the spinal and other preparation elements felt so much longer than the actual birth. My baby boy was out (and screaming) in a matter of minutes and then I forgot everything about the room or the people because all I could do was stare at my husband and son in wonder. I was also really nervous about losing and regaining the feeling in my legs but it was totally fine! I could wriggle my toes quite soon afterward and before I knew it, the feeling was back all over.

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

My husband was my rock throughout every second of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum life. I absolutely love being a mummy, but I have definitely drawn more strength from having him by my side. I also have support from my midwives and mental health team, which have been invaluable. I did have some complications after birth, nothing to do with the c-section, fortunately, and our families rallied around us to help us feel supported and loved.

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

Please, please, please don't push yourself too hard! On day three after my c-section, I felt lazy and like I needed to get out for a walk because I felt fine! But it put a lot of pressure on my mind and body, and the after-effects made me regret my decision. That being said, you can only go with your own experience, so please don't compare yourself to anyone else. There isn't a wrong way to recover, as long as you're actually letting yourself recover! I would also recommend standing up to anyone who even slightly tries to make you feel shame at a c-section. Not only did you just birth your child, but you also did so through major surgery. You're a superhero! Shout from the rooftops about the great thing you just did.

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

All I need to do is look down at my baby boy and think "I carried you safely for nine months and then I birthed you in the safest way possible for us both." I draw strength not only from my firm belief in my decision but also from the support I received to have a positive birth experience. I am a mummy, a role I have longed for since I was a young woman, and I feel stronger than ever that I fulfilled my dream.

Name: Brittany Reid Barratt, Head of Marketing

Country of Residence: England

Instagram Username: @britstick