Elective C-Section (so nervous)

[mum2be2019]

Hi all,
I am due to have an elective c-section very soon due to a horrendous birth with my daughter.
However, as the date has been getting closer I am getting myself so worked up about it all :-(
I am quite a claustrophobic person, so I’m worried about laying flat on my back & not being able to breath which I’ve heard people talk about.
I’m also worried about how long the spinal will leave my legs numb for etc, etc, etc!! I am terrified!!!
Can anyone offer me any advice on how to relax a little?
Is the not being able to breath after the spinal has been administered common?
Sorry for all the questions but I am getting myself so worked up!
Thank you xx

Of course you can breathe. You will be given the spinal anaesthetic into your back while sitting on the side of a bed/trolley. A nurse usually stands in front of you to support you. Once that's in you lie back and they give it a few minutes to work. They will spray your lower belly with cold spray and you shouldn't feel this. You are wheeled into the theatre where your partner will be brought in. A screen is placed in front of your face if you don't wish to see the op. You will breathe normally throughout the procedure. You may get shaky but this is normal. Tell the anaesthetist if you feel odd. It only takes a few minutes for baby to appear - you will feel a tugging sensation but no pain. It's a bit strange but the excitement of seeing baby takes away from it. Baby is then checked quickly and you are fixed up - which can take a little while. If at any stage you feel faint or sick just say it to the midwife/ anaesthetist. You'll be sorted straight away. I've had 4 electives.