C-Section Birth Stories: Kim Clark

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

My son was breech throughout my pregnancy - we were told over and over that he had "plenty of time" to flip but unfortunately he did not. We attempted an external cephalic version (ECV) to flip him and I was devastated when it didn't work. We then scheduled my c-section.

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

I thought that since I had a scheduled c-section that I would feel prepared and in control - boy was I wrong. Stepping into the operating room, I was full of fear and anxiety. I thought that because it was scheduled and not emergent, there was no reason to have fear or be upset about the circumstances, that my feelings were not valid. Looking back now, I think I was in denial about things not going the way I had planned and I didn’t have the resources for support BEFORE my c-section.

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

I had lots of people lend words of support and encouragement but had a really hard time - I felt like if they hadn’t gone through a c-section "then there's no way they can possibly understand"! I had very few friends and family who could relate. I felt very alone in my feelings. My care team was supportive, but I was surprised at the little follow-up that happened (from a medical and mental health standpoint). Almost a year out (as of writing this) I am just now finding the support and strength to really talk about it. The support is there, you just have to be open to finding it.

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

Give yourself grace. C-sections are tough - emotionally AND physically. In many ways, I am still healing, almost a year out. Follow the c-section support groups on social media and talk to someone. Your feelings are real and they are valid. You’re not alone.

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

Having a c-section made me tap into my own emotions and mental health more than ever before. I am not afraid to talk about hard things like I used to be. I know that my journey is not over and that is OK!

Name: Kim Clark

Your Profession: Registered Nurse

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