Intuition saved us 💗
This day could have been something different…
I still remember waking up the morning he was born, obviously not knowing I would meet him hours later. He wasn’t moving all night, I was scared, and I knew something was wrong.
I tried everything. Cold water. Switching positions sleeping. Going to the bathroom. Orange juice.
I took out the Doppler from my nightstand, and heard nothing.
I went into a spiral and sped to the nearest hospital.
He was in distress and we didn’t know why.
I was monitored but started contracting.
I didn’t even know what it was?? I thought it was a Braxton hick. Until.. I was in so much pain they told me I was dilated at a 7 and wheeled me to delivery.
My nurse told me “I’m so sorry honey, but you’re going to have a baby today.”.. I remember her holding me bedside, telling me I can do this and it’ll be great.
I was 25. I was all alone. This was the first time my husband even got to come with me to anything because of Covid, and here we are about to become parents.
Wyatt didn’t even have his wallet on him.
He entered the world and was whisked away with machines attached to him - the nurse took some photos for me and told me to take my mask off.. I’ll always be grateful for her.
I didn’t see him for about 6 hours.
I couldn’t process what just happened.
I was supposed to get a massage that day??
Not have a baby.
5 years later.. I trusted my body, I trusted my mind, and I felt so connected to him - I knew he needed help, and so many of you have been able to do the same to your babies.
The NICU walls are walls I’ll always remember - but I also look at Matix with such gratitude and amazement knowing how strong he has been since day one. We start pre school soon and he couldn’t be more excited, while I also feel mixed emotions knowing this is the beginning of a new chapter of life for him.
For now, we sit in today with a happy birthday to my first born.
My son who has taught me so much, and continues to every day.
I love you Matix!
#happybirthday #preemiestrong #preemieawarenessmonth #preemieawareness #nicumom
The experience of premature birth can be one of the most emotionally intense journeys a parent can face. From the moment the mother in this story noticed her baby wasn’t moving at 31 weeks, her intuition alerted her to seek immediate medical care, which ultimately saved her newborn’s life. Trusting your instincts as a mother is crucial, especially when you feel something is wrong but the symptoms might not seem evident initially. Babies born prematurely, like Matix who weighed just 4 pounds and measured 16 inches, often require specialized care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The NICU walls, as mentioned, leave lasting impressions on parents as they witness their baby's early struggles and milestones. The prolonged stay—such as the six weeks in this family’s case—can bring uncertainty, fear, and isolation, compounded by challenges like COVID-19 restrictions limiting hospital visits. Many parents of preemies also face postpartum challenges such as Postpartum Anxiety (PPA) and Postpartum Depression (PPD), making the journey even more complex. It’s important to acknowledge these mental health struggles and seek support. The story shared highlights the emotional rollercoaster of feelings, from fear and isolation to hope and gratitude. Celebrating milestones, big or small, helps build confidence and strengthens the parent-child bond. Seeing your preemie grow and hit development markers, start preschool, and thrive fills parents with pride and a renewed sense of purpose. Sharing experiences within communities tagged #preemiestrong, #preemieawareness, and #nicumom can offer solidarity and valuable resources. For prospective or current parents, paying attention to fetal movement is critical as decreased movement can signal potential distress. Tools like fetal Dopplers can offer reassurance but should always be complemented by prompt medical consultation if concerns arise. This story serves as a heartfelt reminder that listening to one’s body, seeking timely medical care, and the support of compassionate caregivers can make all the difference. In summary, the journey from the first alarming sign of stillness to welcoming a strong baby into the world and watching them grow is a testament to maternal instincts, resilience, and the power of love. This narrative encourages all parents to trust their intuition, be aware of preemie-related challenges, and find strength in community and shared experiences.
I know what ppd is what is ppa