C-Section Birth Stories: Alyssa Davis-Miner

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

I had severe hyperemesis. I began throwing up at only 3 weeks pregnant and it lasted until the day I delivered. It happened on average 50-70 times a day and all night long! With that said, we opted for an induction at 39 weeks and 2 days. I started having preterm labor symptoms at 18 weeks and his head was already in position and I was 3 centimeters dilated. I had my membranes stripped twice prior to the induction so my OB felt it would be a very quick delivery once Pitocin started. Maverick’s head became stuck in the birth canal and his head began to get extremely swollen and so did I. I had no epidural up until a c-section became a possibility.

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

How quickly it all happened, the amount of pressure I felt as my baby was leaving my body and coming into the world. The intense thirst I felt after my baby was out and how much water I drank while in recovery.

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

I felt so blessed and lucky to have such amazing nurses and doctors to help me during recovery! I never felt like a burden or like I was asking too many questions or for too much help. I also had so much support from my mother who happens to be a doula. She was my support system the entire pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Finally my amazing, selfless husband. I was so blessed and thankful for him. He never made me feel embarrassed about what I was going through. He reminded me of how strong I was and that what I went through gave us our son and he was so proud of me.

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

Take it slow! Don’t let society or anyone else make you feel like you need to speed up your recovery. It is painful, it is not easy, and it definitely makes everything, even something as simple as sitting down difficult and you may need help. Stay in pajamas as much as you can (people tend to not ask you to do things when you still don’t look like you feel 100% - wise words from my postpartum discharge nurse!).

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

I went through something I never thought I would or could! I’ve always told myself that I am weak with pain and couldn’t handle going through that. But guess what, I DID IT! I recovered and now I could see myself doing it all over again for my little one. This was the first choice I made as a mother, my first selfless decision! It was either continuing to try for a vaginal delivery and potentially harm my baby or completely put my trust and faith in God and my health care team to bring my baby into the world safely and to take care of me the best way possible! I knew I had to put my fears and worries aside and make that choice for my son!

Name: Alyssa Davis-Miner

Your Profession: Medical Assistant in High-Risk OB

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