My Birthing Experience

Following on from "My Pregnancy Experience" post comes My Birthing Experience...

So my regular check up with the midwife which had been transferred with my GP ended up as a surprise as I was immediately sent to the emergency maternity ward. This was due to the fact that I had Pre-Eclampsia. I had my suspicions for the past few weeks as my legs, feet and hands grew increasingly swollen. My blood pressure on the day was very high and protein was found in my urine. This confirmed the pre-eclampsia.

Luckily during this appointment I was with my mum! I didn't realise how serious pre-eclampsia was at the time and thought I was just going to the ward for more checks. The midwives re-did the tests and monitored baby's heartbeat. They informed me that baby was okay but had to be delivered, therefore, I would not be getting discharged. I was extremely scared at this point. Funnily, all I could think about was Food! I remember craving for a really big burger just so that I would feel like I would have the energy to push baby. (Was that the hormones or what?)

A couple of hours later I was sent to the High Dependency Unit. The doctor had spoken to me about the dangers of pre-eclampsia. (Details will be given in my next post). They said that I would have to have my blood pressure monitored until the early hours of the morning before being induced, and again after giving birth. At about 6-7am I was induced and 3 and a half hours later experienced contractions. At this point in time, I was completely unaware of what they were - being a first time mum and all.

These contractions were me going into labour as they did not slow down and got increasingly painful. Taking deep breaths helped me so much as I refused the gas and air; it made me feel nauseous. Right after my waters broke, I was taken into one of the labour rooms. It is a feeling unlike any other. Just before giving birth my body felt like all energy had gone and was taken over by the contractions. The body works in mysterious ways; as soon as it was time to push, all the adrenaline and strength came back, (it was also the support of baby's papa :) )

My labour lasted for about 30 minutes. I can't imagine how some women could endure labours lasting 48 hours! Pushing the baby happened so much faster than I had expected. As soon as baby girl arrived, she was put on my chest for skin to skin contact. I felt elated to finally have her in my arms. She was so tiny, precious and just beautiful.

That was definitely the best day of my life!

 

Written by Chic Toddlers. Posted with Blogsy.