C-Section Birth Stories: Katie Spicer

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

I was in labor for sixteen hours and I pushed for four and a half hours. During that time, my daughter barely moved. We tried everything to help push the baby out, but she was stuck behind my tailbone. I was completely exhausted, physically and emotionally. When the nurses told me that I would need a c-section, I was equal parts sad and relieved. Sad that I would not have the birth that I planned but relieved that there was a light at the end of the tunnel. This was not what I had hoped for, but I knew that we needed to do whatever it took to get the baby here safely.

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

The emotions. I always knew a c-section was a possibility. My husband and I were both c-section babies. Logically, I knew there was nothing wrong with having a c-section, but I still felt like a failure. I was upset with myself and I felt robbed of having a positive birthing experience. When my daughter was born, I got to see her for maybe a second before they took her away. It felt like an eternity before I got to hold her. I remember just sobbing as they stitched me back up. It all felt very isolating and lonely.

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

I am immensely grateful for my family’s support. I could not have gotten through it without them. My husband was a pillar of strength when I felt I had none left. He encouraged me, comforted me, and eventually helped me feel at peace with our experience. My mom became my rock in recovery. She went through the exact same thing 25 years before. I talked through all of my emotions and pain with her. It was so nice to hear about her experience and realize I was not alone in this.

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

Do not be afraid to talk about your experience and emotions. My birth experience was very difficult for me to process. The only way I was able to work through it was by talking about it. By being open and honest, I discovered that many of my family and friends had similar experiences. Do not feel like you have to go through this alone. You are NOT alone!

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

Every morning, I look at my scar in the mirror and it reminds me that I created the most perfect little girl. I carried her and protected her, and I brought her into this world, even if it didn’t go how I planned. She is here. She is perfect. She is my strength!

Name: Katie Spicer

Your Profession: Teacher

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