Having an unexpected ELCS... birth plan/hospital bag advice?

[DaleyBump]

I'm having an ELCS in 2 weeks. I'd already written my birth plan for a natural birth but after a scan, it's been decided that it would be best for me to have a c-section. I'm okay with this but I don't really know what to pack now, aside from giant pants, and I have no idea what to put in my birth plan now. Also, how to I explain to my 19mo that I can't pick him up? He won't understand and the thought of not picking him up while he cries is breaking my heart! Possibly overreacting but I'm scared and hormonal.

I had a birth plan and they read it and came and chatted to me about it. One thing I don't think has been mentioned is whether you want to find out the sex yourself, or whether you'd like them to tell you (if you don't already know). I was warned CS babies can need some help with breathing so not to panic if that happens, but there were no problems. I had a lovely cuddle in theatre and fed her as soon as we got to the recovery room. Everything was incredibly calm and well organised. Biggest shock was the number of people in the room, but at least you know you're being well looked after! Anaethiatist was lovely and talked me through every stage. I had a spinal block and no problems with the shaking that has been mentioned so I don't know if that's a possibility? All the very best with it

Some great advice here. I am booked in for elcs with first baby, on 24th. Starting to feel rather nervous!

Is it totally nil by mouth or can you drink water? I will not cope waiting for hours in the very hot maternity area without a drink!! Also, how does nil by mouth work if its an emergency?

I'm concerned about coming home. I have very steep stairs and no shower just a bath. Section is on Friday and DH has to work Mon/Tuesday but is off after that. I assume i will need someone here Mon/Tuesday if i am home? Can i ask to stay in?

Nil by mouth doesn't matter if it's an emergency but the anaesthetist will ask when you have last eaten.

Yes, someone will have to help you. For the first 10 days I was less mobile than I thought I was going to be. That plus sleep deprivation and breastfeeding I would not have managed on my own.

And no, sadly they won't let you stay in. Postnatal wards are very busy and there is high turnover. I would arrange for help on the Monday/Tuesday.

Thanks kewrious I've not been told anything. My appointment to go through it all is the day before the section.

I can manage without food happily but really struggle if i can't drink.

They may let you stay if there are spare beds. For different reasons they let me stay an extra 2 nights, chucking me out when they needed my bed. You might need to stay in anyway. 3 nights is quite normal, longer if you have any complications.