If you are going to have a planned or unplanned c-section, there are things that you’d wish to know. When I had my first child, I wasn’t prepared for or had much knowledge about a c-section so I did not really know what to expect. In writing this post, I am sharing some of the most important things that usually no one tells you about having a c-section.
- Major surgery – A C-section is a major surgery where the doctor cuts open your belly and brings your little one into this world. It is a major abdominal surgery (I have heard and experienced this) as multiple layers of skin, muscle, and fat are cut through before your tiny human is pulled out. The surgery leaves a scar on your bikini line (very much lower in your pelvis) which is stitched up with staples, traditional stitches, or glue.
- You will be hooked up to IVs – During the surgery, some medications are injected to help you with nausea and pain. These are administered through an IV. So only one poke! For someone like me, who is so scared of needles, it was a relief.
- You will be given Anesthesia – You receive a spinal block (which is a numbing injection administered on your spine) which numbs the lower part of your body (everything belly down!). Your lower body will feel extremely heavy after the injection. But you will be awake.
- You will be awake – You will be awake during the complete procedure. Before your surgery begins, a cloth drape will be pulled up at the belly button so, you cannot really see behind the scenes! However, you will feel constant pulling and tugging pressure in and around the belly. The feeling is funny but painless.
- Catheter – A catheter is placed through your vagina so all the urine is collected in the bag and you don’t have to worry about peeing during or after the surgery. The catheter is usually removed after 10-12 hours.
- Your hands will be tied – One of the funniest and most surreal things I found during my c-section preparation on the operating table was that my hands were tied throughout the procedure. As I was laid back on the table, my hands were tied on each side stretched out this way I didn’t try to touch the sterile field during the procedure.
- You will feel nausea – I was extremely nauseous and vomited during both c-sections. If you feel nausea or vomiting, mention this to the anesthesiologist and they can give you medicines through the IV to make you feel better. They offer you a basin if you are vomiting, so don’t worry!
- Operating Room is super cold – For some reason, I always find hospitals very cold, however, I was even more shocked that the operating room was even colder! If you are cold, mention it to your nurse; they will get you warm blankets.
- Skin-to-skin is absolutely possible – If you dreamt of offering your baby skin-to-skin contact soon after birth, it is absolutely possible. Mention that to your doctors and nurses, they try to make it possible if it is safe for you and the baby.
- Breastfeed in the recovery room – After the surgery, you’ll be quickly cleaned up and moved to a recovery room. Immediately after moving there, you will be encouraged to breastfeed your baby. The nurse will constantly monitor your vitals and check your bleeding. You will remain in this room for at least a few hours before being moved to your hospital stay room.
- Expect to move around on your feet – Once your catheter is removed, you will be encouraged to sit up, stand and move around. Baby steps count too! It is not easy, but the faster you move around the better your recovery process will be. Take it slow and easy.
- You’ll be asked to pee and pass gas – The nurse won’t stop at having you move in the room. You’ll be asked to try peeing by yourself on the toilet. It takes time, certainly, a few tries before the stream comes in. Every urge you have to pee, give it a try. It will happen slowly but surely. Another important recovery milestone will be for you to pass gas. Due to the surgery, your stomach will also feel constipated. So, passing gas will help you feel better and move your digestive system into action mode.
- Laughing & sneezing is painful – Since you will have stitches on your lower pelvis/bikini line, laughing or sneezing can be painful. For me, it felt like pulling my stitches or ripping them apart! Thankfully, they were safe, but I always used a pillow or a hard compression with my hand to reduce the pain.
- Bleeding – Even though you delivered via c-section, you will bleed vaginally. The bleeding can last 4-8 weeks. So be sure to keep a stock of heavy-flow sanitary pads. I love adult diapers too! They sit perfectly above the c-section scar thus, are very comfortable.
- Hospital stay 2-3 days – Depending upon your recovery and baby’s growth, expect your hospital stay to be 2-3 days long. If there are no complications, you will be home with your bundle of joy once the doctor approves your discharge.
- Cannot drive – You will need someone to hold your hand to walk around the house at least for the first two weeks. The surgery weakens your muscle strength. You will be asked to refrain from driving at least for the first few weeks. It is best to wait until your 6-8 week post-partum appointment. Don’t rush, it is for your own safety.
- No lifting or bending – Because your scar is stitched/stapled or glued, avoid heavy lifting or bending. It can irritate the scar and worse, might break or cut open a stitch. You are allowed to only pick your baby, nothing heavier than that.
C-section is definitely not an easy way out. It takes a toll on your body and mind as you physically recover from the surgery along with raising your little one!
One tip I’d give you is to be patient with yourself and take things slow. Your body will thank you for that.
Babies n Mii 