Your Birth Story 14 - Your Body Knows Best - Positive Caesarean Birth Story

Where did you plan to have your birth, and why was it your chosen place?

Bronglais, Aberystwyth. It was my chosen place because I really got listened to and I felt safe.

I swayed between a home birth and hospital birth for a while. I did struggle to let go of the fear after two very large PPHs (Postpartum Haemorrhages) and a retained placenta with my son and daughter. My birth ended up being a planned c section as my baby was breech and having had the experiences previously I thought that was the safest option for me and baby, physically and mentally. 

How did you prepare yourself for the birth? What challenges did you encounter, and how did you overcome them?

I had less than two days to prepare for the birth. I did come with a lot of doubting whether I was doing the right thing, if it was necessary, the pros and cons and if it was the right way to birth as it was so alien to me being my first c section birth. 

The challenges I faced was trusting my own intuition but I allowed myself to feel what was right for me without judgement from others. My doula, Tomoko, was amazing at making my experience what it was, calm, slow and listened to and getting all I wished for.

Where did you actually have your birth? Tell us the details of your birth.

I had my baby in Bronglais hospital via c section. My birth was something magical and something I'd not experienced before because of birth trauma. I immediately felt pure love and awe of my baby.

I set off early hours in the morning to meet Tomoko at the hospital, she met me at the entrance to help me with my bags and we walked up to the ward where we sat for quite a few hours before going to theatre. The wait flew by, I was made to feel comfortable and Tomoko made sure to cover the things I'd not even considered. 

Having the spinal done was something I struggled with as I felt so vulnerable and not in control of my own body. I was reassured all the way through while Tomoko checked in and made me feel comfortable with music and just be present. Out came baby M and all was forgotten. This flood of love came for my baby and I immediately knew I'd done the right thing. 

How did your birth experience impact your life afterward?

My birth experience has made life after so much nicer. I've had easier healing physically and mentally.

Message for mothers/parents currently expecting and those aspiring to have a baby.

Listen to your intuition and go for what you want.

EAH 2025