C section experiences?

[glasshalffull0]

Booked in for a C-section that is likely to happen towards the end of June for my first baby, I was originally very chilled out about it but the closer it gets the more panicky and anxious I’m feeling

can anyone that has had a C-section previously share your experiences with me please? I’m worried about the recovery and how I will manage looking after baby after just having an operation especially in hospital when my partner has to leave

thank you

Me! I had an emergency section after five days of being induced and had a 5 litre blood loss and almost died.

I had an absolutely textbook planned c section 3 years later, was up and about within 12 hours and felt great (compared to the car crash of my first birth!!)

I am pregnant again and having another planned section in the autumn ☺️

I had a lovely elective C-section due to breech baby. Everyone in the room was really cheerful and welcoming, and the birth was magical. Instant love for both me and my partner. It probably helped that I was well rested after a lovely day with just my partner the day before - country walk, dinner and cinema. Honestly I couldn't recommend it enough.

My partner didn't get to stay with me overnight on the ward but I know that in some places you can ask for or even pay for a side room? Ask your hospital. I was in for 2 nights and didn't love being dependent on a buzzer to call for help if I needed to get the baby out of her basinet - I was also catheterised for the first 24 hours or so which was kind of great but not for mobility. But it was all OK and I was very ready to go home.

Be prepared for post-surgery gas pain. Peppermint oil capsules and mint tea are good things to pack in your hospital bag, and I think I had some psyllium husk capsules to help with constipation. I bought an extra-long phone charger so it was always in reach even when plugged in. Also two water bottles so I never risked running out if nobody was there to fetch more! Gotta hydrate! It helped to pack little sets of DC's clothes in ziploc bags - eg a vest, hat, and baby gro in each one - to make it easy for someone else to grab a complete outfit without having to rummage. Just expect not to be able to move much and plan things accordingly.

At home recovery was fine. I was out having short walks with baby in the sling from about 7 days pp. It definitely helped to keep on top of painkillers rather than pushing through and then feeling awful, but for the most part alternating paracetamol and ibu was fine. And my partner was great in those early days. One thing I did was have a mini basket of nappy changing kit with me downstairs so I didn't have to move far to change baby. Insulated cup for hot drinks also a must!

Basically it was a really good experience for me, far more positive and gentle than a lot of people I know who laboured or delivered vaginally. Really, you will be OK. Sending you all best wishes for a safe and happy delivery!

@Littlesunshinemoon thank you, that's really helpful and encouraging to know! I'm going to had another chat with my MW and consultant and see what they say! xx