As I shared in my previous blog, my baby boy was successfully delivered last week via Caesarean Section. A part of me still can't believe why I ended up in this situation as I was so careful with my entire pregnancy. Not to mention, all my lab results were good. Yet, it still happened, officially I am now a Mother!
The aftermath of operation.
Yes, I didn't experience that extreme labor but what I've been through is something I no longer want to be in a situation again. After hours at the operating room, that felt like I was slaughtered 🤣, a few more stays at the recovery room, finally I was wheeled in my bed. Feeling groggy, the strong feeling of nausea and the uncomfortable feeling. Longing for a drink but sadly I am not yet allowed! For the next ten hours, what I needed to do is to lay down flatly on the bed for medical reasons.
Thankfully my two sisters- in-law stayed overnight to take care of me and the baby. Such a huge help! Yet, the next day, it was only me and my niece who were left. Though I could get up and sit, I was still a little bit groggy. Still with an IV where all the medicines are administered and catered. My movements were really limited. The stitches hurt and the baby cries from time to time. I was stressed, exhausted and frustrated as I don't yet have milk to breastfeed my baby.
Also as I mentioned, my baby needs to be medicated for a week since he already poops in my tummy. Seeing those fragile hands with hip-lock attached makes me want to cry. If only I could take the medication instead I would so I could free him from pain.
The first week of challenges and struggles.
The OB-GYNE and his Pediatrician decided to discharge us the next day. Yet, I need to continue his medication. It was two antibiotics for morning and night. That means, I have to visit the hospital everyday during those hours.
That would be five long days! Our first night at home was also not that easy. How can I move freely on bed with the stitches on my tummy? Adding the baby feeling uncomfortable as he may be in pain because of those hip-lock?
From his hands it was transferred to his feet as it was more safer , less movement and more convenient. Yet, the procedure was so heartbreaking as the nurse tried twice before it was successful. Finding vein for a newborn was a challenge. I almost couldn't bear looking and hearing my baby cry because of pain? 😥
Breastfeeding was stressful
Breast milk is best for babies but what if you can't produce? It was day two and there was no milk supply yet. Done drinking the supplement my OB prescribed but still no sign.
Just let the baby latch, eventually you will produce milk. This is the correct position and proper way of feeding the baby. The nurse advised me as I raised my concern.
Truth, on the third day, I successfully fed my baby! It was so fulfilling!
How are you Les? How's your sleep? Some colleagues asked me.
For someone whose sleeping is a must, I didn't expect that I can survive days without proper rest! Two hours sleep at night at times.
Sleep when the baby sleeps! As much as I want I can't as my body clock is still adjusting. Perhaps in the next few weeks.
Things become better, medication done.
Finally, after five long days, the hip-lock was removed, antibiotics shots were completed. Baby's feet were freed from the syringe, and he was in pain!
Tummy time and getting him to burp was much easier, he felt more relaxed 😆.
Sad to know, I got a problem with my stitches. Think it was due to travelling daily, going back to the hospital and taking care of the baby alone. (A portion opened though not alarming! I already consulted from my OB-gyne.)
Of course it hurts, but I somehow feel better now! Just one thing I realized, I think I am okay with my unico hijo 😆. Getting pregnant and experiencing that again was something I no longer wanted! Or it could be if the husband is here to take care of me! NO way I would deliver a baby again alone!
However, just staring at my boy, seeing his cute smiles? I can say to myself, it was worth it Les!
Friends, meet my Son, Jhan Caleb
Lead image was edited using Canva
All photos are mine otherwise stated
Footer credit to Sensiblecast
