Tell us about your family…
Hello. We are Emma and Alex. We met at uni and then travelled the world for 10 years. We have now settled down- we got married, bought a house and have a daughter within one year! We took the Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes in Tunbridge Wells.
How was your pregnancy?
Pregnancy was really smooth. I kept up my exercise which helped me loads. The course gave us so much information and reassured me with several things that worried me. I would recommend the course to anyone.
Where did you have your baby?
Pembury hospital.
How was your birth?
I was planning to have an elective C-section. However, I actually went into labour a week and a half early. I was not expecting to go through contractions and labour before my C-section so the course helped me as it covered everything for any birth. I was able to recognise that I was going into labour early because of what I had learnt on the course.
How did you feel when you first met your baby?
I couldn’t believe I had a daughter and it was so magical. Hearing her cry was the best sound ever, I knew she was okay.
How were the early days with your baby?
I was recovering from a C-section. I kept up on my medication and I took it really easy. My recovery was so quick because I really made sure I didn’t push myself. It was very useful to know sleep positions, to air the scar and what things to look out for.
What has been your top triumph?
Having to go through labour before my C-section!
What has been your proudest moment?
My recovery from my C-section.
One thing you weren’t expecting…
To go into labour early.
Any regrets?
Having my hospital bag packed sooner.
How have your HPHB group supported you?
I meet up with the mums every week, and we are very close to two couples. We meet up all the time and we have definitely made friends for life.
Most useful hospital bag item…
A fan.
What was your best post-birth treat?
A can of Pringles.
Most useful baby item…
Dummy.
What was your most useful gift?
Food vouchers or freezer meals.
One final tip for other expectant parents…
Don’t expect your birth to go exactly as planned!