Pregnancy and giving birth are up there on our list of life-changing accomplishments, and one woman is getting extra attention just for that, thanks to a breathtaking photo she shared of her c-section scar. The woman, who decided to remain anonymous, had to undergo an emergency cesarean to save her baby's life. The photo captures just how miraculous bringing life into this world really is.
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The photographer named Helen shared the image on her Facebook page, with a note saying that the mother in the portrait was terrified of having a c-section and opted to give birth naturally. Nature had other plans and her beautiful child was delivered via cesarean instead. "[She] wanted something to show that her biggest fear was what in the end saved both of them. I think she will see that scar and appreciate the life they were given," wrote Helen.
I love that her scar is in full display and showcasing her baby right underneath sends a powerful symbolic message. Helen continued, "I can't believe the amount of women that are ashamed of their scars and made to feel like they haven't done the job properly because they didn't give birth naturally." This woman's scar represents what she once feared and the very vessel that welcomed her beautiful newborn.
Even today, there is still judgment and stigma against not giving birth naturally. Sometimes it's a personal choice and other times it's a matter of circumstance. I'm due in October and hope to be able to give birth naturally, but if that's not the case my main goal is to deliver a healthy baby boy into this world–scars and all.
Images via Corbis, Helen Carmina Photography/Facebook
