Hi, this is my first post on here, I am booked in for c sec on 14th dec with babe number 2.  I had a vaginal birth with DD nearly 4 yrs ago, it was so horrendous that i have been offered an elec sec this time, which I am pleased abt!!

I am just in the throws of writing a bit of a birth plan and wondered if any one had any tips or good advise for me relating to the c sec from start to finish or afterwards???

I want the baby put straight onto me, but don't know if this is poss even?? 

Please help a v confused c sec Mummy to be!!!

Thanks, Jen x

 

 

Hi,

I had elective section with DS as he was breech (and 10 days late when that was finally noticed!).
Am having another elective on Monday (OMG!!).
I had a very uncomplicated section, and DS was delivered before I realised they'd even started! I had a spinal which was lovely - I can only describe it as bobbing up and down on a lilo! They dropped the screen so I could watch the delivery...very odd seeing something happen to you that you can't feel, but not squeamish at all (and I usually am!).
I did have complications afterwards and lost a lot of blood, but that was not because of the section. I'm having the same consultant this time, which is very reassuring.
I liked having a section because I felt far more in control. I've known the date since I was 24 weeks, and have been given codeine to take home with me. I've also bought some arnica to help with the bruising. I've been told to expect a 3 night stay, although if I feel ready I can go earlier. I'm sure the hosp will tell you this, but the best route to recovery is to get up and about asap...I remember once I'd actually got out of bed and straightened up I was fine! The anaesthetist has told me to keep warm prior to the section, as it will mean my veins dilate and it will be much easier to stick lots of needles in me!
Good luck - I am sure it will be fine
Mezley x

Hi Jen

Welcome to the board :o)

I think it will depend on your hospital and surgeon if baby can be put straight on to you.  I had the shakes just after my section so although dh laid both ds and dd across my chest so I could see them he held them the whole time!  Certainly worth asking though.

An elective section is very calm and relaxing and as you had such an awful first time 1st around I'm sure you will find it totally different.

My advice would be to get up and about as soon as you can.  You will have a catheter (sp??) in so as soon as they remove it try and get yourself up and have little walks throughout the day even if it is just around the bed. 

Take all pain relief offered.   I also used arnica tablets before and after section, it helps with shock and bruising and I really do think it made a difference to me.

When you get home take it really easy, especially once the stitch comes out.  I totally overdid it first time and it slowed my recovery down a lot. 

Buy some tea tree essential oil and use a few drops in the bath, it is amazing stuff and will keep the scar area nice and clean.

Dry the scar area with a hairdryer #not a towel), lie down flat on the bed to do this.  I also used to put a sterile gauze on the scar.  I found that it kept the area nice and dry.

Can't think of anything else at the mo but any questions please ask :o)

Good luck and please let us know how it goes.