Calvin’s Birth Story and How We Survived Uterine and Bladder Rupture
on Jul 27, 2011, Updated May 12, 2023
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My hopeful VBAC ended in uterine and bladder rupture. Thankfully, my baby and I survived this crazy and trying day. Here is the story of Calvin’s birth.
I don’t know how this happened, but one week ago tonight I was timing contractions and thinking that I might be in labor.
I was right.
We were set to have a Doctor’s appointment the next day and most likely schedule a c-section. I had hoped I would get a chance to go into labor spontaneously and have my VBAC and Wednesday night, it seemed like everything was working out perfectly. In the middle of the night we decided to go into the hospital. My contractions were 3 minutes apart and getting more intense with each one.
I am not going into all the details of this birth story as it was very different than Oscar’s and honestly, I just don’t have it in me. After 22 hours of labor including 45 minutes of pushing, we (me, my support and my Dr) unanimously decided I needed a csection. We didn’t actually KNOW why, it was just a gut thing.
And it probably saved my life.
Once the surgery started, they realized that I had experienced both my uterine and bladder rupture. Uterine rupture is always a risk for a VBAC hopeful, but I had been a great candidate and both of our vitals were always great. Even the “high” 2% risk seemed worth the gamble. I mean who wouldn’t focus on the 98% chance that my uterus WOULDN’T rupture? I digress.
Bladder and Uterine Rupture is No Joke
So my 1 hour surgery turned into a very traumatic 3 hours and while Calvin was born and whisked away safely in the first few minutes, I was left to tough it out and get fixed. I sent Jerry off to stay with the baby as was our plan in case of a c-section, but neither of us knew how serious the surgeries were nor how long we would be apart worrying about the other.
There are a lot of “could haves” in this scenario. The outcome for me and Calvin could have been catastrophic. I could have needed a hysterectomy, I could have a long painful recovery. Thankfully, the Surgeons did exactly what they were trained to do and here we are a week later with a few battle scars but feeling good, all things considered.
Calvin’s APGARS were 8 and 9 just like his big brother. Neither of us ever showed signs of distress during labor which threw everyone off the scent of rupture. During pushing, I started getting mentally looped out and throwing up. This was well after transition so we knew something was up. Jerry asked all the Doctors and staff to leave us and my mom to talk. We all felt the c-section was needed. It was the strangest uniformity in a time like that. And I believe it was God showing us to a safe place.
I could not be more proud of all my boys. Jerry, for being an absolute rock during labor and taking charge when I needed him the most. Oscar for being completely smitten with his baby brother, being extra gentle and caring with mama’s “band-aid”, and having a blast with whichever caregiver is hanging with him. And for Calvin, my little holdout, staying strong through labor and delivery and nursing like a champ from the start.
I know I will be processing this for some time. I adore my sweet Calvin and I am overjoyed that our family is complete. We are advised not to try and get pregnant again and we will probably take that advice. I am grieved that this much anticipated time has been tarnished with feelings of trauma and physical pain from both my uterine and bladder rupture, but each day is infinitely better than the last. Our births are behind us and now we have these amazing boys. It’s impossible to not feel immensely blessed.
I am starting to come up for air.
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I am SO glad that you and Calvin are okay. I can’t even begin to imagine all the emotions you are and were feeling. I am sending healing vibes to you every day.
If I can do anything to help, let me know.
Peace!
clearly, your intuition was right in knowing what you needed. it was so clear that everyone you trusted knew it to and was brave enough to say that. really thankful for your wellness- your whole family’s wellness. may the healing continue!
Love you sweet friend, so proud of you. Can’t wait to meet C-money 🙂
I’m so glad everyone is safe and healthy. I’m so sorry you had to endure this.This brought tears to my eyes: “And I believe it was God showing us to a safe place.”
I truly believe that was the case. How incredibly amazing.
Get some rest and let me know if you need anything (even if it’s a milkshake in the middle of the day). 🙂
Andrea,
Hearing your story gives me the chills. I was advised right after c/s #1 not to try a VBAC, so it never occurred to me. Hearing your story makes me realize why they gave me that advice. You and your family were truly watched over, and I love that everything came out for the best in the end. My healing thoughts are sent your way.
Your post brought tears to my eyes. It hurts my head to hear about delivery stories but when the topic arises, I feel the urge to share mine. I guess it’s the warrior in me that wants to be reminded of the experience. Your son is beautiful. So glad it all worked out so well. Blessings!
Crazy. Every little bit of it. Love you Updykes!
So many loving prayers of peace and gratitude on your behalf. I am so, so glad that everything worked out well. And so sorry you have the stain of trauma over his birth. You know you did everything you could do. You know this was needed. You know that God was in control every step of the way.
I love you. Take care of yourself – be kind to yourself – the next few weeks especially. Surround yourself with loving people, loving words and loving hugs of healing.
Angela <
What a great testament to you and your family’s faith in God and God’s faithfulness! I am sorry for your loss of the birth you wanted and future possible pregnancies. I am sorry that it makes this time harder than it is for a lot of mommies, that doesn’t seem fair or right. I am praying for your recovery, rejoicing over your new family, and thanking God for how He has His hand on you. Go easy on yourself in processing and remember, it happens in stages and a different paces during different times. Lots of hugs and I wish I could be there to help in person, Malachi would love a play date with Oscar!
Unbelievable, so glad that you and Calvin are both ok. And he is perfect. Way to go, mama.