Paige.

My 3rd pregnancy was a surprise, and after two previous caesareans, I was really hoping for a vaginal birth after two caesareans (VBA2C). I had a challenging pregnancy with severe hyperemesis, significant weight loss and ongoing health issues, including POTS, but I remained determined to give a vaginal birth a chance. With the support of my private midwife, obstetrician and Doula Lou, I felt completely supported in my choices.

I went into spontaneous labour post-dates and laboured for around 24 hours. I was exhausted but continued without induction. Eventually, I returned to hospital for monitoring, and baby’s heart rate began showing concerning decelerations that weren’t associated with contractions. I was still only around 3cm dilated, and I knew a vaginal birth probably wasn’t going to happen. My obstetrician recommended a caesarean, and I felt surprisingly calm and happy with the decision. After everything my body had been through, it felt like the safest choice for both of us.

What made this caesarean particularly special was having Doula Lou there. She supported me emotionally through the unexpected change of plans and, importantly, brought her camera. The birth photography has been the highlight of the entire experience. My previous caesareans were difficult, including one under general anaesthetic following a placental abruption, so I have very few memories. Having these beautiful images means I can actually see and remember the birth of my son.

The caesarean itself wasn’t easy. Being cut and being numb doesn’t feel nice, and I was very nauseous and vomiting, with my heart rate fluctuating. I wasn’t feeling my best when baby was born, but then we saw him — he was huge, and discovering he was a little boy was such a shock! He needed a little help breathing because of the medications, but he is now eight weeks old, beautiful and thriving. This is also my only postpartum where I haven’t experience postpartum depression. I attribute this to the extra support and care that I received.

I worried I might feel disappointed about not having my VBA2C, but I genuinely don’t. I’m absolutely thrilled with how everything went. This is also my only postpartum where I haven’t experienced postpartum depression. I attribute this to the extra support and care that I received. This was a positive caesarean and reminded me that birth doesn’t have to go to plan to be beautiful – Paige.