C-Section Birth Stories: Jasmine Silliboy

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

This was going to be a planned c-section, as it was my second and that’s the route we chose. We had a c-section scheduled at 39 weeks on June 2nd. But, a week and a half before then, at 37 weeks and 5 days I went into labor on my own. I got to the hospital with contractions at 11 pm, they checked me at 12 am and I was 3 centimeters dilated. A little after 1:20 am, I was already 6 centimeters and 100% effaced. My water broke moments after they checked me the second time. The doctor said “Yup, you will be having a c-section soon” and they took me back to the operating room (OR) less than an hour later. I got into the OR, they started prepping me and gave me the spinal, but it wasn’t working and I still was feeling pain. They ended up putting me under general anesthesia. Baby boy number two was born at 2:53 am on May 24th! Also, during the c-section, they learned my placenta was starting to detach from my uterus, and I had a lot of bleeding. They said it was a good thing he decided to come when he did!

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

This was my second c-section but a whole new experience! I am having a better recovery overall. So it surprised me how well I felt afterward and didn’t really have too much pain.

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

My healthcare team was amazing. They were very supportive and kind to me. My sister and niece came to watch our first son for us even though they were two hours away and traveled to us in the middle of the night. I was very grateful for that. Since we couldn’t have visitors during COVID, I video chatted with a few family members during my stay so that was nice to be able to do.

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

Take all the help that’s offered! It will make things so much easier for you. Also, remember you are amazing. Childbirth is rough however you deliver, but having major abdominal surgery and a newborn to take care of is not easy! Welcome the help and remember you are amazing and strong!

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

With my first c-section, I was so scared because that’s what I wanted to avoid. But after going through my first c-section experience, I realized I can get through whatever scares me. This time, I had to be put under general anesthesia and that was pretty scary to me as I have such anxiety about being put to sleep for surgery. So this second c-section proved to me even more that I can get through what scares me and that I am stronger than I give myself credit for.

Name: Jasmine Silliboy, Stay-at-home mama

Country of Residence: United States

Instagram Username: @jasmine.silliboy