Tell us about your family…

We are Emily and Amir. Emily is a dentist and Amir works as a software consultant. We have a beautiful daughter called Elma and a lovely dog called Lola. We took the Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes in Crystal Palace.

 

How was your pregnancy?

My pregnancy was challenging with severe sickness up until birth which I took medication for. The side effects made me extremely drowsy and sleep a lot. I was really only focused on getting through each day. The HPHB course helped it feel more real and got me excited for the baby’s arrival.

 

Where did you have your baby?

Hospital. This was where I felt safest.

 

How was your birth?

My birth ended up being an emergency C-section at 39 weeks. I had reduced movements so went in to get the baby checked. She was fine but they didn’t want to risk keeping her in any longer. I always knew I did not want an induction so a C-section was right for me. I was terrified however when it came down to it. I had completely forgotten all of the breathing techniques that were taught in the hypnobirthing part but luckily my husband remembered and talked me through it. The birth was perfect and I actually really enjoyed it in the end! I’m glad HPHB go through c sections and don’t just push for a ‘natural’ birth as so many people don’t have these in the end.

 

How did you keep comfortable?

Breathing techniques and positive thinking.

 

How did you feel when you first met your baby?

Overwhelmed and shocked.

 

How were the early days with your baby?

Feeding went perfectly, recovery was hard and sleep is obviously lacking but I feel much better than when I was pregnant. The best bit has been the weekly meet ups with the HPHB mums, having a coffee and talking to people who are going through the exact same thing is really amazing.

 

What has been your top triumph?

Bringing a beautiful human into the world, my body did that!

 

What has been your top challenge?

No longer putting your own needs first.

 

What has been your proudest moment?

My baby’s first smile.

 

One thing you weren’t expecting…

To have more energy with less sleep.

 

How have your HPHB group supported you?

They are all so lovely and like minded and talking everything through makes you feel less alone.

 

Most useful hospital bag item…

Water bottle with a straw.

 

What was your best post-birth treat?

Chocolate.

 

Most useful baby item…

Nipple cream!

 

One final tip for other expectant parents…

Go with the flow and make the effort to meet parents each week, even when sleep deprived as you don’t realise how much you need them.

 

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