I was in EXACTLY the same position. A proper, out-of-hand, panic attack needle phobia. My ds is 8 days old. I had a CS with a GA.
I had to have s CS due to complications but, thankfully, the drama surrounding all needle-encounters inthe run up meant they took the issue seriously. I had long conversations with the anaesthetist who recommended a GA. You have to have a cannula which is pretty terrifying, but I got through with EMLA cream, freezing spray, gas and air and a local anaesthetic before the big needle. My dh was allowed to stay to hold my hand. They do have to leave for the op. But we had both come to terms with this. Of course, it does mean you don't see your baby being born-and I understand that when this is a shock it can bs very difficult, but because we were prepared for it, we were fine. We asked for my don to be handed straight to dh for skin to skin and I will never forget comig round to see them cuddling-it was beautiful.
Things you should know- if your baby is delivered early, they are likely for you to want to take steroids to mature your baby's lungs. These are usually delivered by injection, but can be delivered orally.
After the CS with a GA your baby may be quite drowsy, which can sometimes affect their ability to latch on. In addition, your milk can be slower coming in. In my case, I did skin to skin for hours and let him suckle, but the midwives also fed him a tiny bit of formula. Again, in my case, this has not on to affect well established breastfeeding, though I'm sure some will argue otherwise.
After the CS you are likely to need medicine to avoid blood clots. This is normally delivered by injection, though there is an oral option. However, you cannot breastfeed with the pills. In my case, I have decided to have the injections - I am goof back to the hospital every day for one month so that people I trust, who understand my fear and reaction, can deliver the injection. I been prescribed EMLA cream which I apply everyday before leaving the house to help (and minimise the time I am there). I am having a panic attack everyday beause of this, but this feels like an ok sacrifice to be able to breastfeed. And because I am no longer preg (was so about the effect of the panic on my unborn child).
Finally, I posted a similiar thread to this and got, from some posters (and in real life from people who hadnt seen me freak out) very short shrift from those who implied I should just get on with it. I wanted to say to you that unless people have been there, they just don't get it. Dont let them get to you. But there are ways of minimising he impact of your fear on this amazing experience. I found this birth to be much gentler and more beautiful than a drug free, natural, quick labour when my dd was born and I was in a terrible relationship.
Oh, one other thing: the therapist I have been seeing to try and get through this phobia says that with fears like this, exposure to the object of your fear usually just exacabates the problem rather than dulling one to it. Which is the opposite of what people will assume.
Good luck. Happy to try and answer any other questions.