It was Sunday; Sunday 15th August 2021. My due date.

I'd been awaiting this day for 280 days, and although I knew first hand that babies rarely arrived on their due dates, I was excited.

The contractions started Sunday morning. They were fast, hard, and nothing like I'd experienced with my first baby.

I went to hospital and they checked me over. Disappointing news; I was only 2 cm dilated.

I couldn't help but wonder how this was as with my last pregnancy, the pain wasn't as bad, even at 6 cm.

That's when they hooked me up to a monitor and took my temperature.

I begged the nurses to let me go home.

All of this happened whilst my partner waited in a separate room due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Then I got told I had a temperature, and they wanted to admit me due to a possible infection.

My partner wasn't allowed with me until I was in active labour. I already had bad anxiety and hated being alone.

Just 8 cm to go.

They hooked me up to a machine to monitor baby's movements. Everything seemed fine at first, but then his heart rate kept dipping…

We need to break your waters.

My waters were broke, and my partner was finally allowed with me.

Everything was happening so fast, and I still had no idea what was going on. I cried so much, I was terrified.

I video called my parents whilst I sobbed my heart out down the phone.

I was monitored for another four hours before the doctor arrived.

You have an infection in the womb. We suggest a category one emergency cesarean.

Category one: an immediate threat to mother and babies life.

I broke down. This wasn't supposed to happen. I wasn't prepared for this.

They gave me anesthetic before wheeling me into theater. Once again I was alone, with my partner left in the corridor until things were ready.

Nurses and doctors worked around me, rushing and hurrying and talking to each other.

Once they had the equipment sorted, my partner was finally allowed back. He held my hand, but I was still shaking with fear.

I couldn't feel anything. Everything was numb, and before I knew it, a doctor was in my face explaining things.

You might feel some pushing and pulling, but no pain. Everything is going to be fine. Do you believe me?

I was too concerned about being cut open, of course I didn't believe him.

The procedure took fifteen minutes, and before I knew it, I heard crying.

My baby boy was born.

After that, it was time to stitch me back up. During that time, all I could think about was my baby.

Was he OK? Was I OK?

On top of things, I was told he had done a poo inside me.

But what about the infection? That's what I wanted to know.

I was put on antibiotics and told that should clear it up.

And that was it. Of course, I had to stay in hospital for a few days, but just like that, we were both better.

I was sent home with antibiotics and medication. Of course, I have a long recovery ahead of me, but I'm getting there.

Better yet, I had a happy and healthy baby boy.