My Delivery in Honor of Black Maternal Health Month

 I gave birth to my baby girl on January 5, 2024 at 9:14 a.m. not knowing a week beforehand that I would have to have her early.  So, late in my pregnancy, I switched to another OBGYN.  My husband and I were very disappointed in the lack of care and accountability that we received.  So, we then knew that we would have to seek out another provider to get adequate care for me and baby.  

My appointment with my new OBGYN was on December 28, 2023.  The appointment went great and off the bat the experience with this doctor was way better.  In my previous ultrasounds, it indicated that I had a low-lying placenta (placenta covers the opening of the uterus), meaning that there was a big chance of me having to deliver via c-section.  I knew that if I were to have a c-section, that I would deliver at 39 weeks.  Well, at the time of my appointment with the new OBGYN I was 36 weeks and 4 days pregnant.  The doctor told my husband and I that she wanted me to schedule my c-section that following week.  BIG shock to us both to hear that news!  She said because of the low-lying placenta and due to some higher blood pressure readings that she didn't want the chance of my water breaking and it was best to deliver the next week.  My previous doctor was aware of the low-lying placenta and never indicated to me that I may have to deliver at 37 weeks and 5 days.  I thank God we were led to seek another doctor because we would have never known what the best option was for myself and baby.  I was in awe that in one week and one day I would have my baby girl.  

The morning of my scheduled c-section, we arrived at the hospital at 6:30 a.m.  My delivery was at 8:30 a.m.  I was filled with lots of emotions.  I was excited, yet a little nervous.  I didn't know what to expect as far as the pain.  What was I going to be able to feel during the surgery?  How would be recovery look?  Would I be strong enough to endure this process?  Also, I really wanted my mother to be with me for the birth, but us living far away she wasn't able to make it.  My in-laws were able to fly in and it they were a  tremendous help and support system.  The team of doctors and nurses that I encountered in the delivery room and in my recovery room was nothing short of amazing!  I was in great care and couldn't thank God enough for a successful delivery.

I remember meeting my baby girl for the first time.  The doctor brought her over to my husband and I and I was full of happy tears.  She was so beautiful!  My Journi Jenice was born 5 pounds 13 ounces and 18 1/2 inches long.  

As a black woman, I'm so grateful I had my husband advocating for me when things seemed off.  We hear too many unfortunate stories of black women having complications during their deliveries and being dismissed my their doctors when they have a concern. Please remember to always advocate for yourself when it comes to your health.  If something seems off, you have every right to seek another opinion. 

jasmine