C-Section Birth Stories: Nyetta Holyfield

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

First, I would like to say that I've had three c-section births, and each time my body did not progress past 7 centimeters. With my first child, the c-section was considered an emergency c-section and I was put to sleep (general anesthesia). Afterward, I was in recovery for about an hour and then I was taken to my room. During this time, I did not have the opportunity to touch or even see my child. My dad was in the room when I arrived and we met my son at the same time. This was very odd and strange but it was my first time, so I thought this is how things go with a c-section. The second time around was completely different. I wanted to attempt a VBAC but as stated previously, my body did not progress. So, I did 14 hours of labor before finally having a second c-section. Things were different. I got to hear my daughter as soon as she was out. I was awake with my husband right beside me. We got to see her and she laid on my chest on my way back to recovery. I was able to nurse her while in recovery. Just a completely different experience. Then, my last c-section was scheduled. We got to pick the day the baby would come. We went in at our scheduled time, I was well-rested, and my body was in good shape. The hospital allowed us to use a clear lining versus a blue one so I was really emotional when the baby was out. This was our first time seeing one of our children come out of me. What an experience. It was wonderful and I could not stop crying. I got to see them do everything they needed to do with him. I was just staring and the nurses were confused. I had to inform them that even with this being my third child, this is my first time getting to experience everything.

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

A couple of things surprised me with having a c-section. With the emergency c-section, I was surprised at how I was not allowed to bond with my child. It was at least 3 hours before I was able to hold him. With my last c-section, I was surprised at how fast my body recovered compared to the previous c-sections.

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

I was the first in my immediate family to have a c-section. I believe a second cousin of mine had a previous c-section birth. So, I was surprised at how supportive everyone was. My husband was very supportive and helpful. I mean the first c-section he was basically my nurse for 2 to 3 weeks. We lived out of state with no family with the last child, so my dad came to stay with us for a week. That helped a lot with the other kids.

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

Take it one day at a time. Don't rush and you will bounce back.

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

OMG, it made me so much stronger! It helped build my trust and relationship with people. It also made me believe in myself. At times, I felt like I would not be able to handle this but I survived.

Name: Nyetta Holyfield

Your Profession: Blogger

How to Connect With You on Social Media:  @Cocoamomplus3 on Instagram