Your name: Samantha
Partner’s name: James
Baby’s birthdate: 8/5/2013
1. What is the best part of being a mom?
I feel an overwhelming sense of love and fulfillment, and an unspoken bond with my son. Being a mom has made me work even harder to be the best version of myself possible.
2.Give us the cliff’s notes version of your birth story.
I went into preterm labor at 32 weeks. After that, I had a difficult time maintaining a calm and accepting attitude for a few weeks, eagerly anticipating an early arrival of my son. After a great deal of exploring my emotions and letting go of my anxiety, I had finally settled into the end of pregnancy and embraced the concept that babies make their debut when they are ready. I had several false alarms and had begun to doubt my instincts, wondering if I would really know when I was truly in labor.
The day I went into labor, my instincts lead me down the right path. James and I were very excited to get to the hospital and proceed with labor and delivery. Things seemed to be proceeding normally, and I expected to start pushing within a few hours, when suddenly our path changed course drastically. Our baby was in distress and his heart rate dropped dangerously low and was not showing signs of resolving, so I was rushed into an emergency C-Section.
My disappointment in not having the chance to push melted away as soon as I heard my son’s first cries and knew he was healthy and safe. Sometimes our ideal birth experience is not possible, but what matters most in the end is the health of the baby. My son ended up being born at 37 weeks, 4 days, was 5 pounds, 11 ounces, 18.75 inches long and perfectly healthy and beautiful. He had no difficulties transitioning into the world even after a traumatic labor and cesarean birth.
3. How do you find your “me time”?
I have found myself much more accepting of help from others than I had ever been before I became pregnant. I never turn down offers for someone to hold my son while I take a nap or shower. I have learned the importance of pacing myself and listening to my body.
4. What’s the last non-baby related book you’ve read?
“Gulp” by Mary Roach
5.What’s the most useful baby product you have? Why do you love it?
I love the Boppy pillow. It gives my arms a rest, especially for the late night feedings when I’m exhausted.
6. If a newly pregnant mom asked you why she should take classes here, what would you tell her?
Taking prenatal yoga at Shining Light Prenatal Education was a great way for me to meet other pregnant women and first time moms who were full of questions like I was. I used the classes as a means to continue to work on my skills regarding radical acceptance and reading my body’s cues. The more I practiced yoga in a positive and empowering environment during the pregnancy, the more confident I felt about my body’s ability to conquer labor, delivery and caring for my baby. The skills that I learned in Deena’s and Elizabeth’s classes were invaluable in helping me to relax and manage pain during pregnancy and labor.
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