Planned C Section

[Foreverbusymum101]

Having a planned c section at 35+5 never had surgery before, no idea what to expect. Is it really as awful as I think it’s going to be? I’ve got nothing to compare it to, I’m terrified at the thought of it. The thought of the whole thing is just giving me major anxiety. What was your experience like?

No it’s really not as bad as you’re thinking now and I was extremely terrified of the thought of one. I had an emergency category 1 section in the end and honestly it was fine. You’re in good hands! The recovery was the hardest part for me and I wish I stayed in hospital a little bit longer (out after one night post section!) but with support you will be fine. ♥️ xx just stock up on big knickers and loose nighties 😂

Also to add never had surgery before never even broken a bone, I am mrs careful and seriously do hate the thought of surgery and even blood but it truly was fine once I got into surgery. You don’t see anything and barely feel anything and the doctors talk to you the whole time and will help put any anxieties at ease x

I had an emergency c-section for my first and planned for my second. Both fine. Recovery with 2nd was a lot slower but probably because I was still trying to manage a toddler. Stay in hospital and rest as long as they'll let you. The procedure itself is fine and very quick. The slowest, and therefore probably the worst bit, was the staff stating their names and introducing themselves. It's procedure and done for a good reason but when you're lying there worrying it probably feels unnecessary. It's not painful etc. And they'll hand you the baby ASAP so you won't notice anything that happens after that. On the day I was allowed up for a shower I got light-headed so be prepared for that and don't rush it, have someone near etc. Sleep when you can, cuddle baby when you can, and just take each day as it comes. Good luck and congratulations.

It's actually a lovely experience and I mean that.

Everything is calm, everyone is lovely and it's just really chilled.

I didn't feel the canulla or the spinal block.

The only part that was uncomfortable was the sensation of pressure when they start.

Recovery was great and I was out doing small walks after a few days.

Try not to worry and enjoy it. Good luck xx

Also had never had surgery before, apart from extracted wisdom teeth which they knocked me out for! Agree with PP - big, loose pants and comfy clothing. I seem to remember holding a cushion to my stomach when I coughed or laughed for a few days. Also stock up on maternity pads - needed whether vaginal birth or c-section. When you get home if you've only got a bathroom on one floor then stay on that floor for a few days if possible just to save the stair climbing etc. Prevention better than cure so take it gently.

Don’t let them fob you off with paracetamol and ibruprofen. Demand a stock of strong painkillers for the week following surgery. Personally I demanded Oromorph and refused to leave until they prescribed and supplied it.

Yeah, big pants which are super high waisted. Matalan had some great choices.

I took a feeding pillow which really helped me move baby around for feeds etc.

And a huge water bottle which has a straw to save you bending too much for a drink.

If the weather allows, people say take a dress to wear home but I had a November baby :)