Most pregnancies go without a hitch, but sometimes complications arise that require a c-section delivery. If you are expecting and know that a c-section is likely, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself both mentally and physically for the surgery. In this article, we will discuss what c-section preparation looks like, what to expect during the procedure, as well as some tips for recovering quickly and smoothly after surgery.
What is a c-section?
A c-section, or Cesarean section, is a surgical procedure in which the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen. This type of delivery is typically performed when complications arise during labor that make vaginal delivery impossible or too risky for the mother or baby. You probably have a ton of questions – do you need a c-section, can you eat before c section, how to prepare, and what to do after the procedure.
When is a c-section necessary?
You should know what to do night before c-section, how the procedure will look, and what to do after the surgery. There are a number of reasons why a c-section may be necessary, including:
- Breech position – when the baby is in a breech position (buttocks first instead of head first) with the feet or legs coming first out of the vagina
- Prolonged labor – when labor has been going on for more than 18 hours or if there is meconium (baby’s first stool) in the amniotic fluid
- Abnormal fetal heart rate – when the baby’s heart rate indicates that he or she is in distress
- Cephalopelvic disproportion – when the baby’s head is too large to fit through the mother’s pelvic bones
- Previous c-section – if the mother has had a c-section before, she may need another one for future births; she can also have a c section shelf from the previous procedure
- Placental problems – if the placenta is low in the uterus or detaching from the uterine wall
How Can You Make Your C-Section Easier?
If you know that a c-section is likely, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself.
- Choose your support team wisely – You will most likely be able to have a person with you in the operating room during the surgery. Choose wisely who you would like by your side as they will be with you through the entire procedure.
- Discuss the surgery with your doctor – Making sure you understand why a c-section is necessary and what will happen during the surgery is an essential part of c-section preparation. Our friendly Dr. Xiomara
- Martinez can help ease any fears or concerns you may have.
- Create a birth plan – A birth plan can help ensure that your team has a clear understanding of what you would like to happen during your delivery. This can include c section recovery must haves such as who you would like to be with you during the surgery and what type of pain relief you would like.
- Get your affairs in order – If you are expecting a baby, there is a good chance that you will not be able to work for a few weeks after the birth. Make sure you have taken care of all the necessary paperwork beforehand, so you will not have to worry about it after the baby is born.
Tips to Prepare Before The Big Day
Aside from making life adjustments so you’re prepared for your C Section, you can also physically prepare for the upcoming procedure. Besides preparing your c section recovery kit, you should also do these things:
Don’t Eat Solid Foods for At Least 8 Hours Before The Procedure
Can you eat before c section? You will likely be asked not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before your surgery. This is to minimize the risk of aspiration, which is when stomach contents are brought up and inhaled into the lungs.
Aspiration can cause serious respiratory problems, so it’s important that you follow your doctor’s orders and refrain from eating or drinking anything for at least eight hours before your surgery.
Finish All Your Prenatal Vitamins
What to do night before c-section? Make sure you’re taking all of your prenatal vitamins leading up to your surgery and finish them the night before. These vitamins are important for both you and your baby’s health, and they can help reduce the risk of complications during delivery.
Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, which is important for pregnant women because it helps to prevent birth defects of the brain and spine. So make sure you’re taking your vitamins and getting all the nutrients you need before your surgery as a part of your c-section preparation.
Get Your Rest
Make sure you’re getting plenty of rest in the weeks leading up to your surgery. This will help you recover quickly and reduce the risk of complications.
If possible, try to avoid stressful situations in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Stress can have a negative impact on your health and can slow down your recovery process.
Don’t Shave Your Stomach or Pubic Area
It’s important to avoid shaving your stomach or pubic area in the days leading up to your surgery. This can increase the risk of infection. Knowing what to do night before c-section will increase the likelihood of a successful procedure.
If you must shave, make sure to clean the area thoroughly with soap and water, use a sharp razor, and use special cream to shave the area.
Bring a List of Questions to Your Pre-Op Appointment
C section recovery must haves can refer to questions as well. Make sure you bring a list of questions to your pre-op appointment with our South Miami obstetricians. This will help ensure that you cover everything you want to know about your surgery.
Some common questions to ask your doctor include:
- Why is a c-section necessary?
- Can you eat before c section?
- What are the risks and complications associated with a c-section?
- How long will the surgery take?
- What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
- How long will I stay in the hospital after the surgery?
- What are the restrictions after a c-section?
The Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, make sure that you have your c section recovery must haves. Once you arrive at the hospital, you’ll be taken to a preoperative room. You will change into a hospital gown and have an IV started. Once you are ready, you will be taken to the operating room.
The Operating Room
Once you are in the operating room, the doctor will shave your pubic area and clean the surgery site. Anesthesia will be given to you and a fetal monitor will be placed on the baby’s head. The doctor will then make a horizontal incision just above your pubic bone.
The baby will be delivered through the incision, and the umbilical cord will be cut. The placenta will then be delivered. The doctor will stitch up the incision and you will be taken to a postoperative room. Women usually have a c section shelf after this procedure.
After Surgery
You will likely stay in the hospital for two to three days after your surgery. During this time, you will be monitored for any complications and your baby will be monitored for any health problems.
You will likely feel some pain and discomfort after your surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help you manage the pain. It is important to take the medication as prescribed and not to drink alcohol while taking the medication.
Make sure to bring your c section recovery kit with you. You will also be given discharge instructions. Make sure you follow the instructions closely to ensure a smooth recovery.
Some common postoperative instructions include:
- Take all of the medication prescribed by your doctor.
- Don’t drink alcohol while taking the medication.
- Rest as much as possible and don’t pay too much attention to your c section shelf.
- Avoid strenuous activities for six to eight weeks.
- Don’t drive for at least two weeks.
During your recovery, it is important to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Follow the postoperative instructions closely and take all of the medication prescribed by your doctor. Rest as much as possible and avoid strenuous activities.
Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds and don’t go back to work for at least two weeks. Use your c section recovery kit whenever necessary. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Conclusion
A c-section is a surgery that is commonly used to deliver a baby. It is a safe and effective procedure, but like any surgery, it carries risks and complications. Make sure you discuss the risks and complications with your doctor before deciding whether or not to have a c-section.
Are you ready for the big day? Do you still have concerns? Our friendly experts are here for you. Call us at (305) 665-1133 to share your opinions and book a consultation appointment to make sure you’re ready mentally and physically.
