C-Section Birth Stories: Heidi Young

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

I was considered high risk right from the very start since I was 40 years old and (AMA) advanced maternal age. I also had high blood pressure which eventually led to preeclampsia and induction at 35 weeks. After 4 days of multiple procedures, a magnesium drip (yuck), foley bulb, epidural, meds under my tongue, breaking of my waters, Pitocin and dilating to 10 centimeters and pushing, my baby’s heart rate dropped significantly and an emergency c-section was performed.

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

Truthfully, I didn’t put my mind there. I guess I just thought that my body was made to do this and it would. When my situation led to an emergency c-section, everything and everybody was moving so fast around me, that there was nothing I could do. I felt helpless in those moments. I was really surprised at how weak my body was afterward.

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

I was admitted to the hospital after being discharged due to uncontrolled blood pressure. Multiple providers were involved in my case. The nursing staff was wonderful and because I was hospitalized multiple times before and after giving birth, almost everyone knew who I was. “Your back with the blood pressure again”? As of writing this, I’m 4 months postpartum and speak to a therapist weekly due to the traumatic experience I had. It’s been a blessing!

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

Accept the help. Listen to your body. Rest. Pregnancy has empowered me in so many ways. Women are so strong!

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

Anything medical scared me to the point of anxiety and overthinking every single appointment I had. My scar is a reminder of what I went through and what my body was capable of doing. Both my mind and body are stronger than I ever thought possible!

Name: Heidi Young, Physical Therapist

Country of Residence: United States

Instagram Username: @Halkotwin