Sophie Ellis-Bextor has shared an emotional insight into the ‘isolation’ she felt after welcoming two premature babies into the world.
The singer, who is a mum-of-four, was diagnosed with pre-eclampsia during her pregnancies with eldest child Sonny, and her third, Kit. She went on to deliver them at 32 weeks and 31 weeks, respectively; and has opened up about the emotional toll the experiences took on her.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Sophie said: “I didn’t hold either of my babies straight away.
“There’s no point me dressing it up: you definitely haven’t had the baby in the way you wanted, and they’re not supposed to be born that early. So, the first week is pretty scary.”
Kit’s entrance into the world, in particular, was difficult; after giving birth at 31 weeks, she couldn’t hold her third-born for the first few weeks of his life. He weighed a tiny 2lbs 8oz at the time.
“I know so well how isolating it is. When they’re in intensive care, your role as a parent is quite limited,” she admitted.
“I remember being wheeled down to see him, having only seen pictures all day, and being totally overwhelmed. I didn’t really see the box and the machines – I just saw this baby and felt the love for this little person who was now part of our lives, and you just know, don’t you, in that second everything’s changed.”
Sophie, who has been married to musician Richard Jones for 12 years, said she even sensed that something was up during her pregnancies with Sonny and Kit. But, when she would complain of ‘looking puffy’, others would brush off her concerns and tell her she looked great.
Thankfully, both boys are healthy and happy, alongside brothers Ray, five; and Jesse, 17 months.
And for anyone who wants an insight into the Murder On the Dancefloor singer’s family life, all they need do is have a browse through her social media accounts, which are full of adorable photos.
Fair play to Sophie for speaking out about her experience about life as a new mum to a precious preemie baby. We’re sure there are plenty of other mothers who can relate to those feelings of isolation and disconnect.
