So you’re having a C-Section. Now what?

I am a firm believer in that the way I approach a situation, my overall attitude, has a direct correlation to the experience.  With both of my children, I knew that I was having c-sections, so I was able to prep myself, mentally.  I researched the procedure and felt very comfortable with what was happening.  Being so “Type A”, it was also beneficial to be on some sort of schedule.  Although, Finn decided to make a grand entrance 5.5 weeks early, so much of my planning was pointless!

Whether you have a planned C-Section due to medical reasons, (Hudson (my oldest) was Frank Breech, as was Allison’s first son, Lincoln, so, it was unavoidable),  a planned C-Section by choice (I had the option with Finn since a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) comes along with it’s own risks), or an emergency C-Section, there are a few pointers I can give!  I had EXCELLENT experiences with both of my children, and do not feel the least bit jipped or upset about my birth experience.

Side Note: I do get semi-annoyed, at times, when people will say things like “Oh, you had a C-section?  I’m so sorry.”  Or, “Did you have a natural birth or a C-section?”  Or, my favorite, “Oh, how easy!”  First of all, why are you sorry?  I’m not!  I have a beautiful, healthy baby at the end of the day – isn’t that the ultimate goal of pregnancy and childbirth?  I see nothing to be sorry for!  Second, please do not discount the birth of my child by saying that I am somehow “unnatural” – childbirth is the most natural, organic thing that you can experience.  Sometimes you need medical intervention to keep you and the baby safe and healthy.  There is nothing unnatural about doing whatever it takes to ensure a safe delivery, and I naturally grew those babes in my belly, so there is that.  I, for one, and thankful that we have options, and that medical science is around to assist in situations beyond our control.  And, truth be told, it’s just rude!  How do you think that makes other women feel who have incredible birth stories whether a C-Section, adoption or surrogacy?  Just because someone didn’t have their baby the way you did,  it does not give you the right or authority to say that your birth was any more natural than anyone else’s.  My best friend delivered her baby at home, and while I think she’s a total rock star, she doesn’t ever make anyone feel like she is better than they are because that was the path that was right for her and her baby.  And finally, a c-section is not easy.  It’s not the end of the world, but it’s definitely not “easier” than a vaginal birth, it’s just different.  Rant over. So, new-mama to be, what do you do now that you’ve had (or are having) a C-section?

1. Smile and celebrate the new life that you’ve brought into this world!  Congratulations – you ROCK!
2. Allow yourself a bit of time to be upset if you were hoping for a vaginal delivery.  But do not, I repeat, do NOT think any less of yourself.  You are amazing and have accomplished an amazing task.  Be proud!
3. Stay positive.  A C-Section is a major surgery, so you have to know what you’re getting into.  There will be pain and recovery to go through, however, it’s totally manageable and you can do it!
4. If you have the option ahead of time, request that they use DERMABOND instead of stitches or staples.  I believe, without a shadow of doubt, that a huge part of my easy recovery for both kids, was that I was “glued” together.  In addition to being used in place of the stitches or staples, it also creates a waterproof barrier, so there is not a need for bandages or topical dressing of the incision site.  Basically, it stays on your skin until you are healed, and then it eventually just washes off in the shower.  I cannot urge you enough to request this, if you are able.  My first doctor did this with Hudson, and I requested it with Finn.  The hospital where I delivered Finn did not use Dermabond routinely, but they put it in my chart, and I reminded the on-call doctor during my unplanned 3AM delivery of Finn.  IT’S TOTALLY WORTH IT!
5. Take the pain meds they offer on the schedule they suggest.  Even if you feel great, I suggest taking the lowest dose offered, every time it’s allowed.  You want to stay on top of the pain.  That is what saved me.  I was up and walking around as soon as I was allowed, and did everything to care for my newborn, including nursing on demand and pumping around the clock when they wanting me to supplement in the hospital.  I think a lot of this was possible because I felt good enough because of my pain management schedule.
6. Because you are staying on top of your pain, you will be more able to get up and walk around.  You MUST do this!  As soon as you are allowed, start walking the halls of the hospital.  Even if you can only go a little ways, get started as soon as you can.  I would hold on to the baby’s bassinet and push him up and down the hall.  Anytime they were taking the baby to the nursery for vital’s (Finn was a preemie so he was checked A LOT), I would walk with them.  It was slow going, but it’s the best way to get back on your feet, quickly.
7. Be prepared for Day Three.  Day Three is the worst.  Your spinal has finally worn off, everything is shifting back into place, and it’s a tough day.  At least, it was for me.  I chose not to have many visitors that day, and just hung out with the baby.  If you can get through Day Three, you can get through anything!
8. Ask for help if you need it!  Don’t be afraid to ask your hubby, mom, best friend, whoever, for a little extra help!  Just like anyone, whenever you bring your baby home for the first time, it can be overwhelming at first – speak up and ask for a little extra help if you need it.  And, give yourself a huge pat of the back!  You just brought home a human being.  WAY TO GO, MOMMA!

Bonus Tip:  There are some incredible products available for Post-C-Section-Recovery and compression that I have heard great things about!  Be sure to check out the CPanty and Shrinkx Belly Wrap!

So, dear Readers:…Did you have a C-Section?  What are some of your tips for our moms-to-be?  Leave a comment below, or find us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and sound off!  In the meantime…check out some of our sweet AMB momma’s with their babies!