Tell us about your family…

We are Carolina and Francesco and our little one is Leonardo. We took the Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes in Bromley. 

 

How was your pregnancy?

My pregnancy was all good, I was active until the end and ate well, which helped me a lot, especially during the post natal period.

 

Where did you have your baby?

I had initially wanted a vaginal birth but we found out that our son was breech and so decided to go for an elective C-Section. It felt like the right decision for us. The overall experience was positive, but the recovery was hard at times, especially being on the bed and finding it challenging to take care of my baby.

 

How did you keep comfortable?

Breathing technique 4/5, helped me to keep calm.
Music 5/5, made the atmosphere much nicer.

 

How did you feel when you first met your baby?

In a very simple word: HAPPY.

 

How were the early days with your baby?

I struggled a bit during the first days, my body needed to rest and to recover, but my mind wanted to take care of the baby.

 

What has been your top triumph?

Using the techniques I’d learned to stay calm during the C-section.

 

What has been your top challenge?

The recovery.

 

What has been your proudest moment?

Knowing what to do with my baby, especially when he was crying.

 

How have your HPHB group supported you?

We have such an amazing and supportive group, we share everything and help each other.

 

Most useful hospital bag item…

Snacks.

 

What was your best post-birth treat?

Eating everything.

 

Most useful baby item…

Baby play gym.

 

What was your most useful gift?

Stokke newborn chair.

 

One final tip for other expectant parents…

Don’t underestimate the C-section, it can be a positive birth experience and it was in my case, but you will need time to recover.

 

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