Research-backed
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Is your due date almost around the corner? If yes, it is vital for you to get a hold on some important information about cesarean section, also known as c-section. During a cesarean section, an incision is made in the abdomen and uterus in order to deliver the baby (1). In this article, we introduce you to some of the most important things that you need to know about having a c-section so that you are not hit by the boom in case you have to go through with it.
It Can Happen To Anyone
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You can predict the necessity for a c-section in case of complications during your pregnancy. Also, if you’ve had a c-section delivery before and you don’t want a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), you will have to opt for a c-section the next time as well. However, in most cases, you really cannot predict if you’re going to have a c-section until labor is underway. This is true, especially for first-time mommies. Here are some of the situations that demand a c-section:
- Stalled labor even after strong contractions since the cervix isn’t opening enough.
- When the baby is in distress and there are changes in the baby’s heartbeat.
- If the baby is in abnormal positions like breech or transverse (2).
- When you’re carrying multiple babies and the leading baby is not in the right position.
- When the placenta covers the cervical opening.
- When the umbilical cord slips out of the cervix before the baby comes out.
- When you have a health issue related to the heart or brain.
- When you have genital herpes.
- When there’s a fibroid that obstructs the birth canal.
The Two Types Of Anesthesia
You will be given anesthesia since c-section is a major surgery. It can either be a spinal block which is a one-time injection or it can be an epidural which ensures continuous anesthesia using a catheter.
What You May Feel
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Even if you’re under anesthesia, you may feel a bit of pulling and tugging once the doctors are pulling the baby out. You may also feel nauseous, cold, and shaky because of the strong numbing drugs.
IVs And Catheters
You may have to keep the IVs and catheter for some days and especially the first day after the c-section. This can get a bit uncomfortable since you are quite exhausted and you cannot really move around much.
Standing Up And Walking
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You will be asked to stand up and walk regularly to ensure faster healing and prevent blood clots. However, you may not enjoy these walks since they are very painful.
You Will Get To Wear Mesh Undies
Mesh undies come up to your belly button, are super comfortable, and they make sure that your incision is exposed to enough air flow.
Hug A Cushion
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Sneezing, laughing, coughing, or even deep breaths can be painful and you can ease this pain by hugging a soft pillow tight to your stomach.
Be Regular With Your Meds
Once you get discharged and get home, make sure that you take your pills on time. This will help you with the pain and healing.
Painful Poop
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Early bowel movements after your delivery can be painful and it will hurt even when you’re trying to poop. Be patient and try to be at ease while you’re in the toilet. Also, you can ask your doctor about medicines that will ensure easy defecation after having undergone a c-section.
Do Not Lift Heavy Objects
Lifting heavy objects can rip your wound open which is why you shouldn’t lift anything heavier than your baby. Even while carrying your baby, be extremely cautious and try to sit down for the maximum time.
Slow And Steady
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Do not expect to get back in shape as soon as your delivery is over. You will need to give your body and mind time to heal and get back in the track after a c-section.
It’s Not Going To Be Easy
Your recovery will be longer and more difficult if you undergo a c-section. You may not be able to walk around with your baby a lot or get back to your regular chores as expected.
Even if c-section sounds a bit scary to some people, you need to get through with it for your safety as well as your baby’s. Once you have your baby healthy and happy, right in front of your eyes, nothing else really matters – does it?
