C-Section Birth Stories: Kaitlin Budish

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

In my first pregnancy, I suffered from undiagnosed preeclampsia. My brother had just passed away a month before, and my OB wrote it off as a side effect of grief. Turns out, I had extremely high blood pressure, dizzy spells, seeing “stars,” and horrible migraines. After laboring for 19 hours unsuccessfully, my doctor called it and said we needed to get my daughter out as she was having an irregular heart rate.

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

I didn’t expect for the incision pain to last so long. I struggled for three months to walk normally. When I finally healed, I had far greater nerve damage than I anticipated.

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

I didn’t receive much support, as I didn’t know anyone close to me who has this done. I didn’t see a doctor again for 6 weeks, and they briefly checked me and sent me home. I was surprised there wasn’t more follow up.

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

Give yourself lots of grace and time. Don’t worry about cleaning the home. Your only concerns should be your baby and your body, as you will probably need more time to recover than if you had a vaginal birth. It hurts, but you’ll get through it.

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

Being awake for surgery is very surreal. It’s not something I ever thought I would have to do. Knowing I had a major operation, awake while having a baby removed, makes me so proud of the fears I overcame. If I had lived 100 years ago, my daughter and I probably wouldn’t be here today from the complications of preeclampsia. I am forever grateful for modern medicine and don’t take it for granted.

Name: Kaitlin Budish

Your Profession: Stay-at-home mom/dance coach

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