"It was the most significant day of my life"

"Mikateko ("blessings") Bonolo ("simple/easy") Myambo was born at 7:50pm at Netcare  Parklane Hospital... after 20 hours of labor.

Friday 12 August 2011:

40weeks pregnant. I went for the usual antenatal visit when I was told I had started to dilate. I was sent home and was to come back when contractions were frequent.

As I drove back home, the mucus plug broke and I panicked as I did not know what was happening. I called my husband, who in turn called the ambulance. I was rushed to hospital where I was told it was the early stages of labour.

Saturday 13 August 2011:

I barely slept at night with all the anxiety I felt. I woke up starving and was told my contractions were becoming stronger, but I was dilating very slowly.

Later that morning, my doctor suggested the nurse started induction at 12pm through an oxytocin drip. At around 2/3pm the contractions intensified and were very strong - I was in tears from the pain!

I read all about breathing techniques during my pregnancy, but I think all that flew out the window since as contraction came, it felt like my back was on fire. My husband tried to support me through each contraction.

At 4pm, I had an epidural, and by 6.30pm I was finally fully dilated.

I remember being pushed by the nurses to the delivery room with my husband next to me... That must have been the longest minute of my life. I was shaking, nervous, excited all at once!

After a few pushes, my princess arrived at 7.50pm via vaginal delivery (NVD), weighing 3.4kg.

It was the most significant day of my life and I always ask myself how so much pain can bring something so beautiful!

My life will never be the same again, and I thank God for my beautiful Mikateko!"

Zama