How to Cope with a Traumatic C-section
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Have you had a traumatic birth experience that left you feeling shocked, confused, and thinking, “What the hell just happened?” I see you. I’ve been there and it can be overwhelming.
If you’ve ever felt guilt surrounding your birth experience and have been trying to navigate the roller coaster of emotions, this episode is for you!
In this episode, we dive into the following:
My first birth experience and how I went from feeling prepared to feeling like I got slapped in the face by birth trauma.
How I used the trauma I experienced as motivation to become an active participant in my next birth instead of handing over my power to someone else.
The emotions you may be feeling as a result of your birth trauma.
…and so much more!
If you’ve been wondering, “Am I alone in this?”, I promise you’re not. Have a listen!
If you're exploring your options for pregnancy and birth after a c-section, check out my First 3 Steps to VBAC Guide to start learning what choice may be best for you and your family.
Pregnancy and Birth Change You
Isn’t it funny how one major life event can change everything about you and life as you know it? Life has taken me through some extreme ebbs and flows in the past four years. From preparing (or so I thought) for the birth of my son and having it end in a traumatic c-section, to having a beautiful, unmedicated VBAC with my daughter, and now running my own business as a doula and birth educator. It's been quite a journey, one that I never could’ve imagined.
Preparing for Birth is Crucial - Even the First Time Around
Looking back, I've come to realize just how crucial it is to be prepared for birth. Whether you're expecting your first baby or eagerly awaiting the arrival of another, it's important to consider the kind of birth experience you desire and equip yourself with knowledge and support. Are you taking birth classes, researching online, or reading books? Do you feel confident in the choices you're making? Do you know why you are making those choices?
It saddens me to know that many first-time moms, including myself, often find themselves unprepared and facing unexpected challenges during childbirth. The first birth shouldn't be a trial run or a practice round—it should be a beautiful and amazing experience right from the start. Every mom deserves thorough education and unwavering support, regardless of whether it's their first or subsequent pregnancy.
Birth is Unpredictable
Reflecting on my own journey, I was extremely unprepared for the intensity of labor, despite wanting to have an unmedicated birth, I opted for an epidural.
My son's position made it difficult for him to descend, and after four hours of pushing, I faced the difficult decision of opting for a C-section. The realization of needing a C-section was emotionally overwhelming, as the possibility was never even on my radar. Talk about deviating from my birth plan (which I didn’t write to begin with).
Trauma Stays with You
The birth experience starting with the C-section was incredibly traumatic, and although I can now share the story without breaking down, the trauma lingers. I've come to accept that it may never completely fade away, but it has become easier over time. Connecting with others on social media and through friendships has made me realize that many women go through similar experiences, and it breaks my heart. It's so important to acknowledge and talk about birth trauma. It can’t be swept under the rug.
I want you to know that you’re not alone, and your feelings are valid. It's okay to grieve the loss of the birth experience you had envisioned and to feel a range of emotions such as anger, sadness, or a lack of gratitude. You matter, your baby matters, and your experience matters.
Thank you so much for being here!
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