C-Section Birth Stories: Shikha Bhat

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

Being my first pregnancy, I wanted things to progress as naturally as they could. At my 40 week appointment, my OB did a membrane sweep after assuring it was totally safe and could jump-start labor. After 12 hours, on January 1st, 2020, my contractions started. Since they typically instruct you to labor at home as long as you can, I stayed at home for the first 12 to 13 hours. When the pain was too much to bear, I decided it was time to go to the hospital. I assumed I would be at least a few centimeters dilated by then. Little did I know that I was still a long way from active labor. Also, the contractions were causing the baby’s heart to drop too low. They broke my waters, but when things didn’t go as expected and there were clear indications of fetal distress, they gave me a heads up within minutes that I will have to be taken in for an emergency c-section. I could sense panic in the room. I was in no condition to ask any questions being in immense pain, I just asked if my husband would be allowed to scrub in. They wheeled me in and the baby was out in minutes. It felt like a dream, we both had tears in our eyes when we first saw her. I would have 100 more c-sections to hear that first cry and catch that first glimpse.

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

The recovery was very smooth for me. To my surprise, the healing was quick, I didn’t have any pains in my stitches, probably because of being heavily drugged. I found it wasn’t remotely as bad for me as people made it sound. I feared having a c-section, as I had a picture in my mind that I wouldn't be able to walk around and my wound would be painful and whatnot. I even asked the doctor when should I expect to feel pain. Also, I felt immensely thankful for my body - the hard work did pay off from all the pregnancy workouts, yoga, and most importantly having a strong core. In the end, it felt like my body didn’t fail me, it rewarded me in the best possible way.

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

We had our baby in a different country far from home and had no family/social circle. Still, the support I received from the nurses was outstanding. As they say, it is a steep learning curve for a new mom, but the nurses were godsent. I don’t know what would have I done without them, especially the first few nights in the hospital when my husband was not allowed to stay for the nights and I dint know what to expect being alone with the baby for the first time.

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

Being in major abdominal surgery and getting up on your feet the very next day, caring for a newborn - if that is not strength, then I don’t know what is! They rightly say that every pregnancy is different. Don’t stress too much, and appreciate yourself for the wonder you just delivered. Also, have faith in modern medicine, it has evolved so much for a reason.

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

Having a c-section has been the most unexpected yet rewarding experience. I feel my body and mind are so much stronger than I imagined them to be. The body repaid everything I had done to keep it fit and my mind kept me sane, lovingly accepting the marvel my body just created.

Name: Shikha Bhat

Your Profession: IT Analyst

How to Connect With You on Social Media: @shikhabhat333 on Instagram