C-Section Birth Stories: Sadie Cooke

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

My first emergency c-section was due to preeclampsia at 35 weeks pregnant. I was induced and after having my waters broken, I only managed to get to 2 centimeters dilated, my blood pressure was rising, and the baby's heartbeat was dropping. It was all very fast and I only got to look at my baby initially, as both she and I needed to go to special care. Recovering was the worst part for me. I had a drain in my stomach, I was completely bed bound for days, physio on my lung as it collapsed, an oxygen mask, and endless blood tests. I met my baby quickly the following day for a quick cuddle, as I needed to get back to being on the monitors. We were together properly after 5 days.

With my second birth, my waters broke on their own at 41 weeks and labour progressed. I felt the pushing urges and I tried so hard to push but it was no use. I was taken to theatre (operating room), where I developed a temperature and needed to be put a sleep for an emergency c-section. It was horrible since my husband wasn't allowed in the room, due to me being put under general anesthesia. My baby needed resuscitating since he swallowed meconium. It was upsetting, to say the least, to discover what happened and yet I was grateful for the staff who saved him. l also had postnatal depression.

My third birth was in February 2019 and I had a planned c-section. It was so much calmer and easier compared to the previous times. I had a spinal block, the atmosphere in the theatre was lovely, my daughter was pulled out, and I had my cuddle. However, she needed special care too for a mucus clear out. I was ok.

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

How much it drains you physically and how much blood loss you have. Also, that it can be a happy experience.

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

A good support system of help with the older children and mostly housework, which was needed.

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

Get plenty of rest when you can and accept any offers of help. Buy a lot of high waist underwear, so there’s no chance of rubbing your stitches. Remember, you are strong for having a c-section.

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

Having c-section births made me stronger as it made me realize life does not always go to plan, and that's OK as my babies are safe.

Name: Sadie Cooke

Your Profession: Nursery nurse

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