Are you scheduled for a C-section in the coming weeks? Whether it's due to medical reasons or personal choice, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can ease anxiety and ensure a smooth experience for both you and your baby. In this guide, I'll walk you through the process, from the days leading up to the procedure to recovery and beyond.
1. Consultation with Your Healthcare Provider: Your journey begins with an in-depth conversation with your healthcare provider. They will discuss the reasons for the scheduled C-section, address any concerns, and provide you with detailed information about the procedure.
2. Medical Tests: Some hospitals will bring you in the week of your C-section for pre-operative bloodwork. Others will collect your bloodwork on the day of the c-section.
3. Discussion of Anesthesia Options: You'll also have a discussion with an anesthesiologist about pain relief options. The most common choices are spinal anesthesia for a scheduled c-section. This is an injection into your back to numb you from the ribs down, to last the duration of the surgery. Sometimes epidural anesthesia, which is similar but a catheter is placed to allow continuous infusion of medication, can be performed. If you are not a candidate for either, you may have to undergo general anesthesia.
4. Clear Instructions: Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider. There may be medications and supplements to stop in the week prior to surgery. This may also include when to stop eating and drinking before the surgery, typically around midnight the night before.
1. Hydration and Rest: Ensure you're well-hydrated in the days leading up to the procedure. The night before, have a light meal and get a good night's sleep. A well-rested body is better equipped for surgery.
2. Shower and Cleanse: On the night before (or morning of-follow your hospitals instructions) of the C-section, take a shower and use an antibacterial soap. This reduces the risk of infection.
3. Remove Nail Polish and Jewelry: Remove any nail polish and jewelry, as these can interfere with monitoring devices during surgery.
4. Wear a Hospital Gown: You'll change into a hospital gown upon arrival at the hospital. Make sure to leave valuable personal clothing and belongings at home.
5. Food intake: Stop eating at least 8 hours prior to your surgery. Some hospitals will allow clear liquid diet until 2 hours prior to surgery (black coffee/tea, water, apple juice), but check with your provider because improper following of directions could result in a delayed cesarean section for you. Some hospitals will provide you with a carbohydrate drink to ingest the day before surgery, inquire with your provider.
1. Anesthesia: In the operating room, you'll receive the chosen anesthesia. It will numb the lower half of your body, and you'll remain awake and alert throughout the procedure.
2. Incision: The surgeon will make a small incision just above your pubic hairline. This incision is typically about 4-6 inches long. This incision is carried down through many layers until we get to your uterus.
3. Baby's Delivery: Your baby is gently and carefully delivered through the incision. From incision to the delivery of your baby is normally 1-10 minutes depending on many factors. Many hospitals have drapes that can be lowered during the delivery of the baby so that you can watch your baby's birth or see them immediately after. After this, your surgeon repairs multiple layers with absorbable suture. This usually takes around 30-45 minutes.
4. Post-Delivery Care: Once your baby is born, they'll be briefly examined and may receive some initial care. You'll have the opportunity to meet your newborn and hold them while the surgical team finishes closing the incision. Ask your hospital about skin to skin, and breastfeeding options in the operating room!
1. Post-Operative Room: You'll be moved to a recovery room, where you'll be monitored closely as the anesthesia wears off. After this you will be brought to your postpartum room.
2. Pain Management: It's common to experience some discomfort after the surgery. Pain management options will be available, and the medical team will guide you on using them safely.
3. Mobility: Most women can begin moving around within a few hours of the C-section. Gradual mobility is essential for recovery.
4. Nursing: The nurses will assist you with nursing and many hospitals will provide you a lactation consultant for help.
5. Lochia: It is still expected to have vaginal bleeding after a cesarean section. Your nurses will teach you what is an appropriate volume.
1. Length of Hospital Stay: The length of your hospital stay may vary, but it's typically 2-4 days.
2. Medications: You'll be prescribed pain relievers by your physician, check with them for specific instructions.
1. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Typically: No heavy lifting, no strenuous activity, no baths, no swimming, and no intercourse for six weeks. We ask you not to drive for 1-2 weeks until cleared by your physician.
2. Incision Care: Keep the incision clean and dry. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity during the initial weeks. In the shower allow the soapy water to run over the incision but do not scrub, and then you can gently pat dry.
3. Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding is encouraged. A lactation consultant can offer guidance. Typically your supply comes in around day 4-5 and this may coincide with a slight increased temperature of 99-100 Fahrenheit and chills. Let your physician know if either breast is in extreme pain, is red or hot to the touch, or if you have fever >100.4.
4. Emotional Support: Seek emotional support from loved ones and consider joining support groups. Having a newborn is extremely difficult to prepare for and we need all the support we can get.
5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods: Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for healing.
6. Be Patient: Remember that recovery is a process. It may take several weeks to feel back to your usual self.
7. Follow up with Physician: Typically, we see patients 1 week post operatively for an incision check.
Call your doctor or go to ER if you have new worsening pain, heavy bleeding >1 pad/hour, foul odor discharge from incision or vagina, fevers >100.4, shortness of breath, chest pain, pain/swelling/redness in either calf, racing heartbeat, new large amount of swelling.
Scheduled C-sections are planned to ensure the safety and well-being of both mother and baby. By understanding what to expect and following the recommended guidelines, you can approach the experience with confidence and peace of mind. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and care throughout your journey. Congratulations on your upcoming arrival!
