C-Section Birth Stories: Jennifer März

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

My water broke but I didn’t have any regular contractions for more than 24 hours, when I had to be induced. The induction caused me to have contractions without any breaks and therefore I had an epidural. Just before the pushing phase, my midwife checked on my daughter’s position because she said there might be something which wasn’t as it should be. She was right. My daughter was laying in a position that didn’t make it possible for me to birth her vaginally. So everything happened really fast and we had to do a c-section very quickly. We were not prepared for this at all nor was our doula and I felt like I had lost complete control of my body. Our daughter was born perfectly fine and recovered well from the birth trauma, which she, unfortunately, had, being stuck in my pelvis for such a long time. Without my experienced midwife, I am not sure what could have happened.

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

The pain - the horrific pain I had for a really long time. Also, being dependent on others. On a positive note, how fast my body healed, it was amazing to me.

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

My husband stayed at home with me for two weeks and completely took care of everything because I just wasn’t able. He cooked for me, took our dog for a walk, did all the laundry, and took care of just about everything. My hospital midwife and I talked through the whole birth a week after and she informed me about everything that happened because there were many things I couldn’t remember or I still wanted to know. This was the most important talk I had and it reassured me I didn’t do anything wrong.

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

Rest and heal. Take all the support from your loved ones and allow yourself to reflect on what happened and what your body went through. Stand up for yourself and be proud. Go out and seek advice and help if you need it when you struggle with your birth story.

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

I am fully aware of what my body was able to do. My body healed me during the rawest and most vulnerable time in my life and also nourished a baby completely. Looking back, I know that even when my life doesn’t turn out as I imagined it, I will always be able to adjust and see the positive.

Name: Jennifer März

Your Profession: Photographer of Weddings & Women in Switzerland

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