Before I forget and allow life with a baby take precedence over mine, I think I should pen this down.

14th March

2325hr:

I was on my laptop in the kitchen and I felt a little prick in my tummy like a bubble popped. Water was tickling down my leg. As I stood up, water gushed out.

My water bag burst.

I sauntered into the room.

“Mom, my water bag broke.”

My mom jumped up from her sleep.

I was surprisingly calm. I thought of what else should I bring to tide through a possible strenuous 18 hours labor and a night in the hospital – my iPad and charger.

2245hr:

En route to Singapore General Hospital, I did an Instagram story (I am very active on IG story – follow me here) announcing my water bag burst. I was extremely excited.

15th March

0130hr:

The contraction pain kicked in. It was rather mild – a pain meter of 3. The nurse told me to inform them early when the pain hits an unbearable threshold and I require pain relief. They will transfer me to the delivery ward. So I rolled in pain over a few hours on the bed. So uncomfortable.

0430hr:

The contraction pain got stronger. I could not tolerate it anymore.

0445hr:

I was 3cm dilated and squirming in pain. I requested for epidural. The anesthetician advised not to use epidural as I was squirming A LOT in pain already and it takes 15 – 20 mins for it to take effect – I would not be able to enjoy its effects at all.

“But I’m in pain!”

“Inhale the gas until you don’t feel pain.”

0500hr:

“THE BABY WANTS TO COME OUT!” I was already 7cm dilated.

The nurses told me not to waste energy screaming and just push hard – hold your ankle back and push as hard as possible.

I was in a state of drowsiness as I inhaled too much gas. I am blessed that the gas did not make me feel nauseous.

As I pushed, I inhaled the gas.

“Don’t inhale the gas when you’re pushing. It’ll make you weak,” the nurse hollered.

“OH MY GOD! You’re right. First time mom here.” (It’s pretty commonsensical no? Must be the gas.)

I took 4 strong pushes to get the baby out. My bum went up on the final push and I unknowingly sat on my baby! The nurses squealed!

0651hr:

Baby Christopher arrived on 15th March 6:51am in the morning.

Read more on A letter to my coming baby – A letter you always wanted to write.

Baby Christopher and I wish all expectant mothers a smooth delivery.

Here are some photos of my labor journey.

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