Birth Story

Well, here is the long awaited birth story.

Went into the hospital on 9/26 at about 8pm for induction. I was still completely closed but about 80% effaced. Had cytotec placed every 4 hours, for 3 doses. After the 3rd dose, I was dilated about 1.5 cm and my OB broke my water.

I had been having contractions all night, not bad, but progressively getting stronger. After he broke my water, the contractions got stronger. Around 10:30 or so I felt I needed something. Still not significantly dilated (pitocin was started around 9).

So, we first went with demerol and phenergan. Ugh. Mostly all it did was make me sleepy. I would fall asleep between contractions and when they hit, WHAM. Got an intrathecal (that is fentanyl and morphine given as a spinal). It worked for about 2 hours (now it's around 1:30 or so. The contractions were still there and I was then about 5cm dilated.

Called the anesthetist back and he placed a second intrathecal around 2:15 or so. Did not help a bit. Contractions were strong! I wasn't sure I was going to be able to take it. Finally around 3 or so I told C to go get the nurses because I had to PUSH. They came in and I was completely dilated.

Started pushing shortly after the OB checked me and pushed for a bit over an hour. S began having decelerations near the end, so they placed a vacuum, but I was able to push him out at 4:47 pm.

I was surprised I was able to do as well as I did, to be honest. My OB (who is a friend of mine) told me later that he was sure I was going to need a c-section. Luckily I proved him wrong.