C-Section Birth Stories: Julia Jurgs

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

I always knew I was terrified at the thought of giving birth the “natural” way. I would be clammy and sweaty within seconds of discussing labor and vaginal birth. When I had my first appointment at Mater Public Hospital, I broke down in tears for two reasons: 1) I didn’t think I would be allowed an elective c-section in the public system if it could be helped and 2) I felt so awfully self-conscious that I wasn’t like other women; where was my maternal instinct that wanted a vaginal birth? Was I wasting doctors’ precious time just like other women had accused me of? The hospital diagnosed me with tocophobia (significant fear of childbirth) and I was permitted a c-section birth!

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

1) How quick the surgery is!

2) Even with all the anesthesia, I was still positively emotionally overwhelmed with huge surges of love. I accepted that I would never be a singular entity again. I had a new attachment to me forever and it was my job to make sure that attachment grew until she could be on her own. I didn’t realize I would still feel and think all these thoughts when I was so out of it.

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

My baby was born smack bang in the midst of the unknown when Covid hit. The media was freaking us all out. My mother flew from South Africa and was quarantined until a week after my baby joined us this side of the womb. So I had an impeccably supportive husband and mother-in-law. They knew I wanted my own Mother with me and it wasn’t possible. So I had that support, I had the physical support from my husband and I had the midwives caring for me for the two nights I spent in hospital. I do feel that my stay in the hospital was far too short, but the hospital was expecting an increase in patients due to Covid.

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

If you want a cesarean, push for it. It was an incredible experience. If you end up having to have one, relax. They do up to fourteen c-sections a day, at Mater Public Brisbane, so you are in good hands there. You aren’t their first rodeo.

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

As a woman, I finally trusted myself. I wanted a cesarean. I was shamed and judged for it by some, and supported by many. I doubted myself and felt awkward answering people’s questions. I’m stronger now. I will tell people now exactly what I want with my child. My body, my baby, my spirit.

Name: Julia Jurgs

Your Profession: Fruit & Vegetable Supplier

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