Pregnancy & Birth
Cesarean Section What To Expect – Planned or Emergency
Apr
Recent statistics show that 1 in 4 births will result in a cesarean section. I the UK a C Section is quite a common procedure and April is Cesarean Awareness Month! So lets dive into what its all about.
Cesarean Births:
A C Section is a major abdominal surgery used to deliver a baby when it is necessary for the health of the baby and the mother, when a vaginal birth is no longer a safe option. While a C Section is a necessary and often life saving procedure, it comes with its own set of challenges including a longer recovery time compared to a vaginal birth.
What Can I Expect During A C-Section:
Whether its a planned C Section or an emergency one to ensure the safety of both you and your baby it is MAJOR surgery!
A horizontal incision will be made below your bikini line and the procedure usually takes around 45 mins. You will not feel any pain but some Mums have noted that it feels like someone rummaging in your belly. A screen is placed so you are unable to see any of the procedure but you will be able to see your baby once they are born. This is a very calm experience and should not be feared. Your partner will be able to be by your side in the majority of cases.
A planned c Section will involve prior appointments to the hospital for Pre Op checks and you will be asked not to eat or drink anything 12 hours prior to your arrival – if like me …on my third baby I had a planned C Section booked (due to having 2 previous failed Vaginal births) I prepped the night before, arranged for grand parents to have our other 2 littles overnight and was all ready to arrive at the hospital at 7am for a planned C Section….but we ended up going into labour at midnight, arrived at the hospital and was immediately taken in for a cesarean, so even planned ones can become unplanned. All that matters is that you and your baby are safe and happy.
What Happens After – Can I Feed My Baby?
1) You are taken to the recovery ward and will be given pain relief for the pain. During this time you will have your new baby with you and can begin breastfeeding if you choose to.
2) Movement is encouraged from early on and you will be able to shower. Taking care not to get your wound wet.
3) Eating and drinking is allowed as soon as you feel upto it.
4) Your catheter will be removed after approx 12 hours
5) Your wound will remain covered for approx 24 hours
You can usually leave hospital after 1-2 days and will need to arrange a lift, you are not allowed to drive after a C Section for approx 2 weeks, and it is advised to see your doctor prior to getting back behind the wheel!
See More About What To Expect Here!
Recovery and Restrictions At Home:
It is essential to give your body the time it needs to heal after a C Section! Recovery can take several weeks, during which you may experience discomfort and be limited in your daily activities. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities during this time. Accept help and enjoy your time to have all those baby snuggles!!!
Tips for Self-Care and Baby Care:
- Take it easy: Rest whenever possible, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends and family. The house work can wait!
- Stay on top of pain management: Follow your doctor’s recommendations for pain relief medication to stay comfortable during recovery.
- Prioritize bonding with your baby: You have the perfect reason to stay cuddled with your new baby.Despite the challenges of recovery, focus on building a strong bond with your newborn through skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding, if possible.
Words of Wisdom from Cesarean Moms:
- “Accept help and don’t be afraid to ask for it. Recovery takes time, and it’s okay to lean on others for support.”
- “Invest in comfortable clothing and pillows to ease discomfort during recovery.”
- “Don’t compare your birth experience to others’. Every birth story is unique, and what matters most is the health and well-being of you and your baby.”
Wound Care:
Your midwife will be visiting often during the first weeks and will check your wound regularly, they will be the ones to remove the staples if this is the method used on your wound.
Yo will be be advised to:
- gently clean and dry the wound every day
- wear loose, comfortable clothes and cotton underwear
- take a painkiller if the wound is sore – for most women, it’s better to take paracetamol or ibuprofen (but not aspirin) while you’re breastfeeding
- watch out for signs of infection – you will be given a list of signs to keep an eye out for.
Non-dissolvable stitches or staples will usually be taken out by your midwife after 5 to 7 days.
Click For Information On The Risks Involved With a C Section
A Shout-Out to All Moms: However You Become A Mum You Are a Warrior!
Whether you became a mom through natural birth, cesarean section, adoption, or step-parenting, your journey is valid and deserving of celebration. Let’s honor all moms this month and every day for their strength, resilience, and unconditional love.
Share Your Birth Story With Us!
Resources for Further Reading:
For more information on cesarean births in the UK, visit the National Health Service’s official website: NHS – Cesarean Section
Can I Ever Have A Natural Birth After A Cesarean?
Having one C Section does not always mean you can never have a vaginal birth – referred to as a VBac – Vaginal Birth After Cesarean.
Most women who have had a caesarean section can safely have a vaginal delivery for their next baby and you will be able to discuss all the options with your consultant.
You will be monitored closely to ensure your labour is progressing well and it will be advised for you ro have a hospital birth as opposed to a homebirth.
Some women may be advised to have another caesarean if they have another baby.This depends on whether a caesarean is still the safest option for them and their baby.
For more information, read the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists leaflet on birth options after previous caesarean section.
Thank you for reading!
Blog Inspo From www.bellabooforme.com
