Rachael - IVF, Induction, Epidural and Positive Birth with PPH in CUMH

I had an ivf pregnancy which meant that I knew I’d be induced in my due date. Although I did have the choice but I was sure to ask the doctors what the risks were if I went over my due date. And I made the decision to go with the induction.

The day had arrived I checked into the hospital nearly like a hotel with my suitcase and I was brought to my room.
It is worth noting here that every midwife I came across was an angel!

I had my first gel and I was feeling good so my partner went across the road to get me a 4in1.

Then the second gel went in. The first hour was fine just lay there no problem. My partner was told to head home as mot much would happen. Less than 30 mins later my waters went. And the contractions came hard and fast!!

I was brought to the delivery room at 7.30 the next morning. And it was here the fun began!!

I got straight on the gas and air, sang a bit of Afro man it was great!!

I was on the fence about the epidural the whole pregnancy but had it on the plan and when I got down they were ready to put it in.

After that the day flew!!

I was checked throughout the day and finally at 3 o clock I was 10cm dilated and ready to go. I was told in one hour we would start to push so to rest while I could, but I couldn’t I was buzzing!! Than all of a sudden the pain hit me like a ton of bricks!! The epidural wore off. The machines started to bing baby’s heart rate was over 220 and my temperature had spiked. The whole time the team were amazing they kept me calm kept me chatting and get everything under control. The anaesthetist came into the room with more jungle juice to numb me it was fantastic!

The hour was up time to push. I was told this could take an hour but I knew I’d have my baby in the world before that. 20 mins later I vomited and our beautiful baby CJ was in our arms.

I had a haemorrhage and a grade 2 tear. But what made the experience amazing was how the team kept me calm and worked so so hard. They kept me smiling and positive.

Back to the ward and the care I got was second to none. I never wanted to go home!! Literal angels!

I’d do it all again tomorrow tear and all.

My advice do your homework, ask every question and at the end of the day remember this is such a happy day so all the pain will mean nothing. Also trust the staff they will help you so so much. 

Rachael beaming with joy holding her newborn son, CJ.