Second time in Covid

Back in late 2019 Covid had hit in New Zealand - rules started changing, including the Code of Rights for patients. Me and my partner were expecting our first baby boy, due 25th April 2020. 

Now it’s 2022 and Omicron has arrived in New Zealand, but before that it was the Delta outbreak. We now have our second baby boy, born 11 January 2022, and it has been more difficult. I had to go for my covid vaccine due to work as I am an ECE Teacher.  

I was quite scared going for the vaccine, I didn’t know whether it was going to be harmful for baby but it was mandatory. I got both doses done which meant being fully vaccinated. During the time I was pregnant with my second baby boy, rules started changing more. During my check-ups with the scan and midwife, no support person was allowed due to the lock down, but then when I was far along in my pregnancy Horizon Radiology allowed a support person but only if they were vaccinated.  

My partner was only allowed at one scan to see his baby boy. We were both thrilled that they finally let us both in.

I had excruciating pains throughout my pregnancy therefore my partner or mum would drive me to see my midwife, both were fully vaccinated but still not allowed to come in. My pains got really intense and I asked my manager if I could reduce my hours at work but she didn't allow it - I had a doctor’s certificate but that wasn't good enough. So my only option was to take maternity leave earlier, it was quite a difficult time for us as I was now relying on my partner’s income.  

I chose to have a home birth with our second baby boy as I wanted my family to be there and witness this special moment. I didn't want to go through the same thing as I did with our first son. I felt more comfortable at home and supported, surrounded by my family while giving birth.  

Since this pandemic has hit it has been extremely hard mentally and physically, especially for first-time mums, mums-to-be, daddies, grandparents, family. My partner’s family is from Nepal and they only get to see their grandchildren via video chat. This has been extremely difficult for us as parents and now our second son is born, neither daddy or big brother are allowed to any of his screening or doctor check-ups.  

There's one thing I would like to say, if you are in your own bubble it does not matter. The government has already broken the Code of Rights for patients. We are now a family of four, but not allowing daddy or his big brother to be involved in appointments is breaking our bond.  

Now to conclude my story. Having a water birth at home with our second son was really hard - luckily I had the support of my family and two midwives. Going through all the pain, screaming and shouting, but seeing my family gave me relief, and hearing my partner’s words made me stronger.

This was my first experience giving birth at home, it was special for all of us. We all bonded and helped each other welcoming our second baby boy, the second grandchild, into this crazy world.  

The MNAP Family
Pelenise Kairau-Siaosi-Enefatu