After everything you went through, how did you feel when you found
out you were pregnant? What was your first reaction?
It was quite a long journey before I finally became pregnant – though I
know it can take a lot longer for many people with fertility issues to get their
precious bundle – but it was still hard. Every month I had an embryo transfer
and then waited for that blood test result. To find out it wasn’t successful was
heart breaking, but I had the support of family and close friends to help me
through those moments. I definitely shed tears of joy when I finally got the
positive result that I was pregnant. I was so happy to realise that my dream of
having a child was coming true.
How did you approach your pregnancy? Were you relaxed and easy
going or were you hungry for knowledge and read every baby book
you could find?
The first 12 weeks of the pregnancy were stressful. I had spotting and
experienced two early miscarriages during the time I had been trying to
become pregnant. After the first trimester, I was more relaxed especially after
my first formal scan and where I saw the baby was healthy. As for Googling
and reading books, this wasn’t for me. I have over the years had a number of
friends who have had children and I spend a great deal of time with them so I
had plenty of reference points.
What was one of the most surprising things that you experienced
during your pregnancy?
I think one of the most surprising, or special moments, was at my 13 week
scan. Seeing the baby properly for the first time, their little heart beating and
then to get a video of bub with the hiccoughs – very special.
Did you experience any weird food cravings or any changes you
weren’t expecting?
The only weird craving I had was for extremely cold drinks, otherwise it was
pretty standard.
Did you know what you were having or did you keep it a surprise?
I found out at 11 weeks through Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing that I was
having a little girl. I had this test to check for any genetic abnormalities as I
was over 35 years of age which increases the risk abnormalities. I was happy
with whatever sex the baby was as long as they were healthy.
Can you describe your birth experience?
My birth ended up being a little different to what I had expected. I was a
booked caesarean section for the 8th June due to medical reasons. However,
I threatened preterm labour from between 35 to 36 weeks so we prepared for
that. The day it happened, I was admitted to the Maternity Unit and laboured
overnight so was not aware as to how far I’d progressed until I was being
wheeled around to the operating theatre where an examination revealed I was
9cm dilated. This meant the cesarean had to be performed quickly but the
birth was not traumatic and there were no issues. I knew I was in safe hands
with Dr Drew Moffrey and the surgical team. Because she was early, the best
sound I heard was her screaming when only half way out!
What were your emotions when you first looked at your baby?
When Dr Moffrey held her up during the caesarean there was the feeling of
immense joy at the realisation that my dreams had come true and she was
here safe and sound. You do not realise the intensity of a mother’s love for a
child until you experience it for yourself.
How are you finding motherhood? What is the best thing about
becoming a mum?
Motherhood has been a learning experience for both myself and baby Caitlin.
Doing it on my own has had its challenges, but with the support of my family
we are both adapting well. The best thing about becoming a mum is knowing
that I created this tiny little human who, in my eyes, is just perfect.
What have been the biggest challenges of becoming a mum?
The biggest challenge for me has been the sleep deprivation. At first I didn’t
listen to the advice from friends and family to rest when Caitlin does. This
would definitely be the best advice I received.
66 Pindara Magazine ISSUE 14 | 2018