The Start of Labor

• 👶 Labor began around 9 PM on a Friday with Will's wife, Charo, experiencing contractions while they watched a movie.
• 💧 By 3:30 AM, Charo requested a bath for pain relief, finding comfort in the warm water and counter-pressure on her lower back.
• 🚶 Throughout Saturday morning, they followed a "30 on, 30 off" routine of activity and rest, with contractions 7-10 minutes apart.

Hospital Admission and Early Challenges

• 🏥 Arriving at the hospital around 1:30 PM, Charo was only 2-3 centimeters dilated, requiring her to wait in triage.
• ⚠️ The baby's heart rate was monitored closely due to being stagnant, leading to advice for an IV to hydrate Charo and improve fetal heart rate variability.
• ⏳ Despite initial resistance, Charo accepted IV fluids, but progress remained slow, with no significant dilation for several hours.

The Long Labor and Epidural Decision

• 🔄 After moving to a delivery room, Charo progressed to 3-4 centimeters, but remained at 4 centimeters for 16 hours without an epidural.
• 😥 The labor became increasingly difficult, with Charo experiencing suffering, leading to the decision to get an epidural at 3:30 AM.
• 💉 The first epidural attempt was unsuccessful, causing further distress, but a second attempt at 7:30 AM provided relief and allowed Charo to sleep.

Progression and C-Section Decision

• 📈 Following the successful epidural, Charo progressed to 5-6 centimeters, then 7 centimeters, but stalled for hours.
• ⚠️ Complications arose, including shakes, a fever, and a high white blood cell count, increasing the risk of infection.
• 🏥 After 47 hours of labor, facing continued stagnation and health risks, the decision was made for a C-section.

Birth of Cerulean Bell Compton

• 👶 The C-section was performed, and their daughter, Cerulean Bell Compton, was born weighing 7 pounds, 11 ounces and measuring 22 inches.
• 🏥 Due to meconium exposure, Cerulean required NICU care for breathing support and monitoring.
• ❤️ Will experienced immense emotion seeing his daughter for the first time, while Charo, recovering from the C-section, focused on her daughter's well-being.

Naming and Early Parenthood

• 🌟 The name Cerulean was inspired by the color of the ocean during their honeymoon in Bora Bora, where she was conceived.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Will is excited about fatherhood, cherishing the moments with Cerulean and reflecting on the intense journey.
• 💖 The experience has deepened Will and Charo's connection, highlighting Charo's strength and resilience throughout the challenging childbirth process.