C-Section Birth Stories: Jasmine StPeter

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

On April 3rd, my water had broke in my driveway when I got home from work. I went into the hospital and my water had for sure broke, but I was not dilating. They tried Cervidil, but that didn’t work. So they started me on Pitocin the next morning, on the 4th of April. It worked pretty quickly and I was having intense contractions. Around 5 pm to 6 pm, I was ready to push. I pushed for a total of 4 hours and even asked for a c-section halfway through but was told no. I tried different birthing positions, they had me roll onto each of my sides with a peanut ball in between my legs, they turned down my epidural so I could feel the contractions, but that baby was not budging. I was so tired and was falling asleep in between each push. They had to take me in for an emergency c-section late at night and eventually had my baby boy at 11:05 pm!

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

It honestly surprised me how quick the c-section was. He was out very quick once the process started. But, it also surprised me how it felt. I knew you would feel some pressure, but I felt a lot. They had to use quite a bit of medication to numb me but it still didn't completely work. I was wincing with each tug and with the pressure.

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

Some of my family lives an hour away, and the rest lives 3 hours away. So I didn't have a lot of support right near me. We had a few visitors to come to see the baby of course and couple brought food for us which was much appreciated, but I feel like I didn't have a lot of support physically and mentally. There really weren't many people who asked how I was doing. When I did admit how I was doing, I felt like I was kind of brushed off. My significant other was amazing though. He did A LOT of diaper changes and a lot of getting up at night because I was so sore. He was my caregiver while I was so sore and when it hurt to even walk. He was great.

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

Ask for help! Or accept it when it's offered. You are so sore and exhausted after giving birth and while caring for a new baby. Let someone come watch your baby while you shower or take a nap. Let them bring you a meal. Anything! It helps so much. If you are surrounded by great support, take the offers!

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

I was absolutely terrified of having a c-section. I said during my entire pregnancy that I did not want one and wanted to avoid it. So, I got through one of my biggest fears and it taught me that I can get through anything that scares me.

Name: Jasmine StPeter

Your Profession: Medical Assistant and mama :)

How to Connect With You on Social Media: @jasmine.stpeter on Instagram