Nighties only after c-section not pyjamas? (Sensitive topic related)

[YourHandInMyHand]

I'm having a planned C-section this time around, not had one before and a few people have mentioned I'll need nighties not pjs because of catheter, comfort on wound, etc. Is this right?

I know it sounds daft but this has left me hugely anxious. Due to childhood experiences I never wear nighties, I'd feel very very vulnerable in just a nightie, even in my own home I'd feel on alert. I always wear pyjamas, and they are always the legging style trouser bottoms.

I was already feeling anxious and vulnerable as our hospital has recently changed policy allowing dads to stay overnight in the shared rooms. Again, due to childhood experiences the idea of this really freaks me out. Even more so now I may be in a nightie not pjs, bleeding, fresh scar, boobs out lots trying to breastfeed etc. I know I'll be too on edge to sleep.

I've since found out the hospital do try to group mums with dads staying, and mums without together but can't guarantee it so I will ask for that and hope for the best, but now I'm just very anxious about the nightie thing.

I realise these worries aren't logical. Which is why I've not voiced them to anyone in real life. But to me they are very anxiety inducing situations based on childhood abuse. So if anyone has anything to say that's kind or reassuring I'd really be grateful. I do intend to chat to my midwife about all this at my next appointment but its not for quite a while yet and so I don't want to be worrying massively between now and then.

For my third child I laboured and gave birth in a cheap cotton summer dress. It was knee length so not over exposing, could that be an option for you immediately after you have your baby? Then change into lovely soft PJs once the catheter is out?

As soon as I was allowed to get up, I had a shower and got changed into pj's after my semi-elective with DS4. DS4 was delivered around 7pm and it was nighttime/early hours of the morning when I had my shower.

Something like this...
www.asos.com/asos-design/asos-ultimate-midi-t-shirt-dress-with-rolled-sleeves/prd/8739176?clr=black&SearchQuery=t%20shirt%20dress&gridcolumn=1&gridrow=24&gridsize=3&pge=1&pgesize=72&totalstyles=117

You will be wearing a theatre gown until you go to the ward. 12 hrs (minimum) after the C section you can have the catheter out. Once that's out you can get changed. As long as you are able to walk ok and you pee more than 200ml in 4 hrs you can wear what you like.
If you want to wear pjs go for it. One thing I would say is : wear ones that come up above your belly button.
Also. Bending to pull the pjs down may be uncomfortable/painful when going to the loo. Wearing a nightie may be easier fr that reason alone.

I would suggest wearing pjs but taking a nightie. That way if you feel uncomfortable trying to move with the pjs on you can change.

Good luck!!

I don't think how you feel is illogical I would be anxious about the same things as you and your feelings are valid. You should explain exactly why you are worried to a midwife. Part of their job is to ensure your mental wellbeing along with your physical wellbeing.

i only wore the hospital nightie that first night when the catheter was in. as soon as it was out and i got washed and dressed i put on leggings