A C-Section Birth: Our Journey with Margot

After having a cesarean section with my son in 2021, I knew I’d be having another C-section with Margot. While a natural birth was never an option for me, I always felt a little sadness about missing out on that experience—no water breaking, no contractions, no rushing to the hospital in the middle of the night. Over time, I’ve come to accept this and focus on the positives of a C-section.

I’m an over-the-top planner, and a planned C-section made it easier for me. With Margot, we knew her birthday three weeks in advance—25-02-2025. It felt like the perfect date. Knowing this early, gave us time to arrange childcare for Albie and get everything ready at home.

The night before, my parents arrived to look after Albie. We had a relaxing evening, everything packed and ready, and enjoyed a quiet dinner. I set my alarm for 6 a.m., but woke up at 5 a.m., nervous and excited. I went downstairs to watch TV while I waited. When it was time, we got dressed, said our goodbyes, and calmly made our way to the hospital.

At the hospital, I was shown to my bed, had my vitals checked, and waited for the call to head to the operating room. Around 10 a.m., it was time. The anaesthetist gave me the spinal injection, and I felt the warm sensation spreading down my legs. I was wheeled into the operating room, ready for the procedure to begin. From the first incision to Margot’s birth, it took about 10 minutes.

When the moment came, the surgical curtain was lowered, and I saw Margot being brought into the world. It pains me to admit, I still didn’t have that immediate bond at that moment (if you had a chance to read my previous blog you’ll know the reason why), but I was anxiously waiting for her to cry. After what felt like a lifetime she gave a huge cry and I instantly relaxed.

Before they handed her to me for skin-to-skin, I asked the midwife to check her over. I had been so anxious during the pregnancy I needed to know she was ok and my NICU nurse brain was still in work mode. Then, my husband brought her to me, and I felt a sense of awe. Was she really mine? I held her close, and finally I felt more at ease knowing she was safe in my arms.

After the surgery, we were taken to the postnatal ward. Our breastfeeding journey started off easily, which was reassuring. The sensation in my legs returned after a few hours, and by then, I was up and walking around. After a C-section, I recommend getting up and moving as soon as possible (when safe to do so)—both of my recoveries went smoothly, and even better than some friends who had natural births.

That first night, it was just Margot and me. We had a quiet night, getting to know each other, with no distractions. It was such a special time.

Albie was beyond excited to meet his baby sister, and he’s taken on his big brother role with so much love.

Our journey to becoming a family of four has been incredible, and I’ll cherish this time forever.

Margot Olivia Shevtsov 

25-02-2025

11:00am

3.44kg