C-Section Birth Stories: Ruth Gordon-Martin

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

Prior to my c-section, I had a myomectomy. It's a surgery to remove fibroids, so going into my c-section my doctor and I spoke about my circumstance. I had vertical uterine scars, which are not strong enough to withstand contractions. So, it was determined my c-section would be planned.

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

What surprised me the most was how immobile I was after giving birth, the amount of pain that was involved, that I would lose so much blood, and would need a blood transfusion. Plus, with a low blood count, I was diagnosed with postpartum anemia and required weekly check-ins with my doctor. The physical aspect of recovery was a complete surprise.

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

If I had a million dollars I would give it to my aunt. She came to see me in the hospital in the afternoon and never left. My hubby was with me for a part of the day but from the afternoon to overnight she was there. She put two chairs together with a pillow and that was her bed right beside me. She did this every night for five nights. Once I got home, she was there as well for another two weeks. My hubby felt useless but for a good reason :). I'm forever indebted to her.

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

My one piece of advice would be to know what to expect. Recovery after a c-section is usually longer than after a vaginal birth. Being immobile or a simple thing as not being able to pick up your newborn shouldn't be a complete surprise.

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

1. My c-section made me more grateful for my life and the lives around me. To know that this is another way to bring life into the world makes me full of gratitude for my aunt, my hubby, and the health care providers.
2. My c-section experience made me humble - to see my body then and then days/weeks as I recovered and it transformed, is nothing short of amazing
3. It's empowered me to become a postpartum doula and start a company dedicated to the postpartum period, focused on helping moms understand what to expect

Name: Ruth Gorgon-Martin

Your Business: CODDLE LLC, https://www.coddle.co/

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