Birth story - Amy and baby Oliver

Well, my story is one that I like to share because not so many mums experience similar events. My pregnancy was normal, the sickness, constant need to pee and the cravings were all there and more.

At approximately 25 weeks I noticed that I was getting more and more puffy. Tests were conducted and my midwife said “Amy everything’s fine and normal.”

Over the next few weeks the puffiness spread all over my body and I noticed at times I was getting extremely out of breathe. I asked for more support and guidance, however I was told by a doctor that what I was feeling was anxiety and that I needed to relax.

At 29 weeks the whole week I could feel my heart jump on several occasions, the professionals said all the checks where healthy, however I definitely felt something was wrong.

August 1st, the day before I turned 30 weeks pregnant, and I knew something was wrong. I spoke with doctors and midwifes whom sent me home to rest to try to work on some anxiety management but I couldn’t settle all night and I felt sick with worry. I drove to the hospital where I was greeted by a junior doctor. I explained my concerns to the doctor and said I wasn’t leaving until they checked me out and I’m so so glad I put my foot down at this moment. Urine tests, Bloods, ECG, Ultrasound, were all carried out and to my surprise the staff began to panic.

The junior Dr approached the bed: “Amy I’m sorry to inform you that you have early signs of heart failure which we know has happened due to undiagnosed preeclampsia. At this moment in time in order to keep you and this baby alive we need to do a rapid course of steroids and prep you for c-section.” and that’s what they did.

The staff gave me all the information I needed to go through with my emergency c-section and just like that Oliver was born with his mummy and daddy watching the full time. I’d urge any mums now to trust your instincts because my baby wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my stubbornness.