Preparing For A C-section - Don't Be Caught Off Guard

If you are preparing for a C-Section there are several things you'll want to consider so that you won't be caught off guard. 

That's where good preparation and planning becomes such an important component. Without it you are left with your doctor and hospital staff making decisions for you and that can leave you feeling out of control and emotionally compromised.

Statistics show that women suffer a lesser degree of emotional stress and depression from having a c-section if they prepare themselves, meaning they fully understand what a c-section is and then prepare themselves for the procedure itself and the recovery. 

Knowing these things will allow you to not only take part in the events that occur during a c-section but you'll have a plan to help you through your recovery so as to make it smoother, easier, less painful and more enjoyable. So many c-section moms never experience that :-(

You may be thinking, "How do you plan for something you don't expect to happen?"

"Expect the unexpected", as they say and plan accordingly.

Preparing for a c-section or planning for a surgical birth means understanding the risks, becoming familiar with the c-section procedure, deciding on personal choices, familiarizing yourself with possible complications and reducing your c-section anxiety and stress levels.  

So how do you effectively prepare for a C-Section?

You've probably heard women say that they didn't feel their c-section was really necessary or that doctors are often too quick to perform c-sections due to convenience or avoidance of legal issues. This may or may not be true in many cases however, wouldn't you want to be sure that your c-section was the best choice for you?

The only way to effectively prepare is to understand why c-sections are performed and be aware of your options. You aren't going to be able to do this while flat on your back in labor. This is why keeping yourself informed, and having a plan for what may occur is so important. The last thing you want is your doctor or hospital staff making decisions for you. This is your body and your baby's birth; it should be as you would like it.

No matter how you expect the birth of your baby to go, take the time to go over possible complications, understand the choices and be ready emotionally and physically:

Here are a few of the items to consider when preparing to have a c-section. These are things to think about not only before the c-section procedure but after as well.  Give each of them some thought and work them into your birth plan if you have one.

Surgical Anesthesia
There are basically 3 types of anesthesia, spinal, epidural and General. Spinals and Epidurals are regional anesthesias which mean they numb a region of your body, in the case of a c-section the region is roughly from the waist down. Most c-sections use a spinal or epidural and you should have an idea for which one you would like.

The urinary catheter
You will be administered a catheter before surgery. Make sure it gets inserted after your anesthesia as inserting a catheter may 'smart' a bit.

Where does your baby go after the birth
Ask your doctor or the hospital about having your baby rest on your stomach after it's born. At this time the baby is often whisked away and never brought back until you are in recovery. Think about how you wish this to be and request it beforehand.

Discuss pain relief with your doctor
Being as pain free as possible is important to your recovery, it also helps get breastfeeding off to a good start. Your milk may be slow to come in so it's important to get the process going as soon as possible.

How do you envision your delivery to be?
Most hospitals will allow your partner with you in delivery but some hospitals will allow other family members as well. Check with your hospital and doctor to find out what their procedures are and plan according. Also don't forget to think about pictures and/or videos.

Your Recovery
Your c-section recovery includes a hospital stay which is typically about 3-4 days. The first day or so you will be slow and tired, but stay focused on moving about as quickly as you can, and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

Keep in mind that your c-section recovery at home may not be as easy as it was in the hospital. I'm a big believer in planning and getting as organized as possible.  I wasn't always that way but I've learned that it makes life a whole lot easier.

Start by preparing your home for convenience before leaving for the hospital. Have things in easy reach, map out in your mind what you will be needing and how to have it within easy reach.

Preplan childcare, transportation and events for older children so you don't have to worry about it. Plan ahead for meals and household chores so that you are free to concentrate on other baby related things. Work in a modest exercise plan that keeps your energy up. Remember to get as much rest as possible and stay focused on yourself and your baby.

Even if you hate exercise incorporate a c-section recovery exercise plan. I can't stress how much this will boost your recovery as a whole and your energy, not to mention you'll look great.

Don't rely on trying to remember these things.  Instead take a few moments to plan them out carefully.  Doing this can make a significant difference in your  overall birth experience. 

For the essential advice, tips and help with having a C-Section, including recovery, avoiding unnecessary pain and risks and how to get back into shape safely, the Worry Free C-Section is the only resource you'll need.   

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