My C-section Surgery and Recovery
Delivery of your child is the most important event in a mother’s life. We have our right to choose the birth mode of our child. However, for me, C-section was not a choice. It was compulsory.
My first baby was breech and my doctor was extremely curious to know why the baby was breech. Everything seemed fine. I planned to schedule an ECV (External cephalic version) to boost my chances for vaginal birth as well but later refrained upon knowing the risks again. Like all women, I wanted to have a vaginal delivery too but alas, this was not meant to be. I opted for an elective c-section thinking about the ECV risks. Immediately after the surgery, I asked my doctor, “Why?”
She looked at me and said, “You have a uterine septum, Fatmah. That’s the reason why the baby didn’t turn (as in head-down position) as there was little space. We can’t give you a VBAC after this either. It’s risky for you and your child. So, C-section is how you are going to have your babies”.
Yes, truly, I felt cheated at first. This was not how I thought I’d have my babies.
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It's hard not to feel guilty for getting a C-section, but like you said, it was necessary in your case, so don't feel bad at all! My C-section was also medically necessary, and it took a long time before I felt guilt-free. Just remember that in the end you and your baby are healthy, and that's all that matters.
-Charlene
www.melodicmom.com
My first delivery was natural, the next two were C-sections. In no way did I feel "cheated" out of natural birth because I'm one of those women who just cannot deliver that way because of physical issues.
Recovery from both C-Sections was "interesting," to say the least, and took longer than after the vaginal delivery. Funny how you have decide which hurts more - laughing or sitting! Plus, with my last baby, I was in hospital for several days (I thought I'd never get out of there).
All that really matters is having a healthy, happy child. What more blessing in life can there be for a mother!
All the best to you.
http://www.plus-size-pregnancy.org/CSANDVBAC/shouldbegrateful.htm
Even if you had a medically required c-section feelings can surface that are real and important. You shouldn't brush away all negitive feelings "just becuse you have a heathy baby" It's great to have a heathy baby but women are complex and have many layers to them. Nurture all your layers!
I think it's important to validate your feelings about being cheated. I had nightmares during my pregnancy about having to undergo a c-section. The pain, the risks, the sterile medical table and equipment making it so "unnatural"...but the truth is, when there's no other choice what's the better option? A baby that doesn't make it due to reluctance or one who does, but just came out a different way? I think that when we finally put cesarean sections into persepective, it's a good option to have.
Now, if we are talking about how often some doctors will jump the gun and suggest a c-section...that's a different story.
Fatmah-- thank you for sharing your stories and pointers. I am sure many women will find them useful.