Gemma Atkinson has no time for mummy-shamers claiming that a C-section birth "isn't proper labour", sharing a heartfelt post in response.
The soap star welcomed her first daughter, Mia, this year and admitted that she felt like a failure by having a caesarian section delivery to welcome her baby girl.
The 34-year-old actress said that she had been left doubting herself after a woman teased her, saying she'd taken the 'easy option' when it came to having Mia with boyfriend Gorka Marquez.
Writing to her fans on Instagram , Gemma wrote: "A lady recently joked with me that I'd had the easy option when it came to having Mia as I didn’t experience 'proper labour.'
"She wasn’t being nasty, she said it in jest and she was actually really lovely, but it did get me thinking when I got home. Had I failed? Had I not done it 'properly'?" she continued.
After a good chat with myself, I came to the conclusion that the only 'proper' way to have a baby is the way that’s safest for you and your baby."
Gemma became a mum in July, and added; "There is nothing easy about having a section. There is nothing easy about a vaginal delivery.
"They are both tiring, scary, emotionally draining and each have their own recovery process both mentally and physically," she added.
"However you brought your baby into the world was right for you and your baby at that time and that’s what matters. To any mums who like me, had to have a section and are feeling a little odd about it (which is normal) the above is for you."
The former Hollyoaks and Emmerdale actress Gemma has spoken about her dramatic labour recently, where Mia's heart rate dropped after every contraction.
"Midwife Katie, who was taking care of me at the time, pressed the panic alarm and within 15 mins I was rushed out, prepped and delivered Mia via an emergency C-section.
"It wasn’t what I’d planned but thanks to my hypno-birthing despite the madness and panic, I was able to calmly keep my breathing technique and accept whatever is best for Mia just do it!"
Gemma and Gorka seem to adore their lives as parents so far, relishing the time with their new baby girl.
Strictly Come Dancing star Gorka revealed the news that he will not be one of the professionals competing with a celebrity dance partner this year;
"For everybody that’s been asking, I can let you know that this series, I sadly won’t be partnered with a celebrity for the main series of Strictly. However, I will still be heavily involved in all of the group numbers and all things Strictly!"
The loved-up couple met while filming Strictly Come Dancing in 2017 and went public on Valentine's Day of last year.
Feature image: Instagram/@glouiseatkinson
