I wasn’t planning on having a C-Section with the birth of my second daughter – but as I quickly learned with my first pregnancy, birth plans don’t always work out. In my case I had to have an emergency C-Section where I was only in the hospital for less than 10 minutes before I was under and the baby was removed from my stomach. It was the only option and after I woke from this intense experience I distinctly remember the pain as nurses and my husband needed to help me get up and get around in a wheelchair. What followed was an intense recovery that I really knew nothing about.
Here is a rundown about everything related to C-Sections so that you can be prepared before, during and after this surgery.
Ask Questions and Learn More About What Will Happen.
- If you are planning to have a C-Section (or have to have one), prepare for it as much as possible by asking your doctor about every step from anesthesia to birth. In most instances you will have to drink Bicitra (a liquid to help with your stomach acids) and have a spinal injection to keep you numb.
- A blanket will then be placed over your body and you will surrounded by nurses, doctors, your partner, and most likely a pediatrician. In most instances, you will also be shaved before the surgery is performed.
C-Sections are Quick.
- After you are completely numb the surgery will begin. You will likely get to see your baby (unless there any complications) and then they will be given an APGAR test. The doctor will then close up your incision with stitches or staples
C-Sections are Painful.
- After the surgery, I found myself awake (and in a daze) in a recovery area. I was shocked at the amount of pain I was in as having a slight case of nausea. A nurse came t monitor my heart and attach me to some pain medication via an IV. I also found that my stomach where the incision was extremely itchy and sore. Basically, expect to be out of commission for a few days.
It Will Take a Few Days to Pass Gas.
- Not a pretty topic, but with C-Sections it takes a few days to pass any gas. The nurses were constantly asking me if I done so and when I did they were happy and told me that is a great sign that my body was starting to recover.
You Will Bleed.
- Although you don’t give birth vaginally, you will still bleed. Again, this is something I didn’t realize so be sure to have comfortable underwear and pads stocked up.
Nursing May Take Time.
- As in the case with a vaginal birth, milk sometimes takes a few days, and even a week, to come in. For my situation, I didn’t have any milk for at least two weeks where I had to do a combination of bottle and pumping until it came in.
You will Feel Good Again.
- Now for some good news! Despite the pain of this surgery, you will feel good again and your body will be ready to move around, exercise and move freely again. Note: Ask your doctor about specifics for when you can resume.
