C section experiences

[MaryH90]

I’m due to have a c section in around 3 weeks, this will be my second delivery but first CS after a difficult labour with my DD two years ago. Can anyone share their section experiences? When did you go in? Did you have a long wait? How did you feel throughout the process? How did you find caring for your newborn after? Did your partner stay with you overnight? Just trying to mentally prepare as much as possible!

I've had an awful EMCS and a brilliant ELCS.

With the overnights, I'd send your partner home so at least one of you has slept. Bell the midwives to pick baby up if you need it. Tbh I was OK picking mine up after the ELCS as long as the cot was the right height. One rested partner is easier whe and you get home too.

Big pants for sure, and some trousers that aren't jeans so won't push on the scar. Loads of people wear leggings but they aren't what I wear so I got some gym trousers and some jeggings in a bigger size.

Depends where you are giving birth for when they take your dressing off. When they do, spend a few minutes every day with your wound in the air. Mine is under a flap of skin so had to lie flat to air it out. This really helped with healing.

If you feel sick afterwards that's OK, I was horrendously sick both times. Ask for an IV anti emetic....it really works!

All the best OP.

Yes, I was able to lift mine in and out of the crib after my morning EMCS but couldn’t manage it the evening after my afternoon ELCS. But agree that getting the bed to the right height is key!

I also recommend something like maternity yoga pants as they are super soft and comfy, and you can roll the maternity band back as your tummy goes down.

I had 2 CS's no labour.

EMCS at DS1 died following day (unrelated to birth). CS it's self was fine although my blood pressure kept dropping during (normal) which makes you feel awful, you have to tell them and they reverse it for you.
Recovery was awful, immense pain. Stayed in bed as long as possible trying not to move until forced to by midwife. Stayed in for 2 weeks. Infection followed, few months later had an abscess in scar tissue that ruptured.

ELCS (technically as wasn't my choice and was only told the day before) DS2 born healthy. The CS was much like the first. The recovery this time was much easier, I was up and walking as soon as I had feeling in my legs, could lift DS (10lbs 5oz) and breastfeed etc. In for 3 days. Infection followed but cleared up quickly after stitches removed.

My advice, best thing I read was to move as soon as you can, and try to stand up straight (slowly) and stay on top of pain relief, even if you feel ok!
It's major surgery, don't feel like you 'should' be doing this or that, be kind to yourself, say "yes" when help is offered. Oh and maybe get some prunes/dried apricots to avoid constipation! GL