C-Section Birth Stories: Jenny Oswalt

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

I had a twin pregnancy and preeclampsia. My other two children were also born by c-section. I can not give birth vaginally since I don’t dilate and it has something to do with my pelvic bones.

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

I wasn’t surprised due to knowing my previous issues. However, with the twins it was a new experience and preeclampsia was a new complication that worried me. We welcomed our twins on 10/28/19.

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

Amazing support! At our hospital, all the nurses and doctors were more than helpful. I feel as though the babies and I were cared for wonderfully. The nurses were always nice and went above and beyond. They even took good care of my husband! The twins are his first babies. Since I was stuck in bed after the c-section, I called a nurse to help walk him through his first poop diaper with each baby because he was so scared. They were awesome about it! The babies’ grandparents have also been more than willing to help whenever we need it.

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

Communicate with your nurse, medical team, and partner constantly about anything your feeling. Use the nurses all you can while you're in the hospital, it’s what they are there for! Be the same with family - don’t turn down help! At the same time, don’t be afraid to ask folks to leave when you’re overwhelmed or tired. It’s all about you and the baby!

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

It takes a lot more to care for my new twin infants after a c-section. I’m 36 years old, healing a bit slower, in a lot of pain, but I was given the go-ahead to get up and moving and care for the twins. I feel a great sense of accomplishment for getting through the pregnancy, c-section, and now caring for them through my own healing process!

Name: Jenny Oswalt

How to Connect With You on Social Media: On Instagram and Facebook @JennyOswalt