Did you just find out your birth plan just changed? Remember no matter how you deliver the baby, in the end, you get to hold and see your bundle of joy and that is what’s important. There are multiple reasons why your birth plan may change, and here is everything you need to know about c-sections before having one.
What is a C-section, and how is it done?
A C-section is a surgery done to deliver a baby through the abdomen. The mother will first have anesthesia. This will take about 20-30 minutes. A catheter and an IV will be placed. Then the doctor will begin the surgery which will only take about 10 minutes. The doctor will cut through multiple layers in order to reach the baby. The amniotic fluid will be suctioned. The baby’s head is born first, then its shoulders, and finally its body. Your baby’s nose and mouth will have to be suctioned too.
Why would a C-section be needed?
C-sections could be needed for many reasons including:
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Your cervix stops dilating leading to a prolonged delivery.
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Your baby is breached.
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You are carrying multiples.
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If you have a placenta previa.
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If you have a prolapsed umbilical cord.
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Your baby is in distress.
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If you have an obstruction near your cervix.
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You have health problems.
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If you had a C-section before.
Can I have a vaginal birth after a previous C-section?
Yes, you can ask to have a vaginal delivery if you have no complications.
How should I prepare for a C-section?
If a C-section was planned ahead of time, try reading everything you need to know about C-sections beforehand. You should shower with an antiseptic soap the night before. Do not shave your pubic hair within 24 hours of the surgery. You will have some blood work done in order to find out your HB level and your blood type just in case something goes wrong. Don’t forget your hospital bag. If you want to know what to pack, read “Packing Your Hospital Bag“.
Can I choose to have a C-section without any medical reason?
Yes, you may ask for a C-section; however, you need to understand that C-sections are not simple surgeries, and they come with risks.
What are the risks of having a C-section?
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Infection
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Need for C-sections in the future
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Blood Clot
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Postpartum Hemorrhage
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Reaction to Anesthesia
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Surgical Injury
Are C-sections painful?
You will have regional anesthesia and will not feel any pain during C-sections; however, you may feel nauseated and a feeling of pulling and pushing.
Will I be able to hold my baby and breastfeed after surgery?
Yes, after the surgery your doctors will give you the baby to breastfeed. They will also keep an eye on you to make sure everything is okay.
Recovery after a C-section
You will stay in the hospital for 2-4 days. It will take about 4-6 weeks to fully recover. You will feel a lot of pain 18 hours after surgery because the anesthesia will begin wearing off. Your doctor will remove the catheter after 24 hours of surgery. You may begin to walk and go to the bathroom. The doctors will monitor your pain. They will also remove staples and bandages. They will cover the incision area with Steri-Strips. You can eat solids usually at this time. Also, you will also have a postpartum checkup. You are not allowed to take baths until your incision area is completely healed (7-10 days after surgery).
Here is everything you need to know about C-sections. If you have more questions, leave a comment.
