Worry Free C-Section Tips 6-Part Mini Course

Welcome to Part 7 of my 7-Part Mini Course

Welcome to our most asked questions concerning c-sections.  There's lots more where these came from but here's a few of the more common ones:

Let's take a look...

__How Do I know If I really need a c-section?

There are several factors that indicate when a c-section is necessary but there are also times when a c-section may not really be necessary.  How would you know the difference? You'll know this by understanding why a c-section is performed. But you should also understand your options.  For example, if your doctor says you need a c-section because your last birth was a c-section you can challenge that by considering a VBAC (vaginal birth after c-section). 

Always know what the risks are and what options are right for you.  In other words, don't take your doctor's word for everything, do you own due diligence by understanding all the facts and discussing them with your doctor.

___How long is the surgery and is it painful? 
The surgery, without any complications, is about 45 minutes to an hour long.  The most common anesthesias are the spinal block or epidural block which numb you from just above the waist downward.  You won't feel anything during the surgery except a little pressure as your baby is being born.

Any pain you feel will come after surgery. Staying on top of your pain will make a huge difference.    

___Will I feel I've "missed out" on the experience of giving birth?
Having a c-section is surgery and, of course, you won't deliver vaginally, but you can still view your baby's birth and it can be just as rewarding. If you have a plan, you can make sure you experience things like holding and breastfeeding your baby immediately.  

If a c-section happens and it's unexpected, the best thing you can do is be ready for it. You don't want to leave yourself vulnerable to having your doctor or the hospital make decisions for you. Think about your options and have them in order and ready for whatever happens.

It's important to not blame yourself if labor does not go as expected, however if a c-section does become necessary -- be prepared.  

___Will my baby and I bond?
You are no less able to bond with your baby by having a c-section than with a vaginal birth.

Bonding is defined as holding, cuddling and breastfeeding your baby. In many cases your baby can be held immediately after surgery. Your bonding experience is also greatly enhanced through breastfeeding your baby.

With c-section moms, your milk can be a little slow to come in, however this will not prevent you from nursing.  You should begin to nurse and bond as soon as you feel up to it.

___Will I have a big ugly scar?
I've had two c-sections over the same incision and I can hardly see my scar today. There are certainly things you an do to diminish scarring, however you'll actually be proud of your scar some day, if you can still find it!  

___Once a c-section always a c-section
Today, roughly 80% of women who have had a c-section are good candidates for a vaginal delivery or VBAC (vaginal delivery after c-section).  However a VBAC is not for everyone.  There are a few things required to ensure success and discussing the options with your doctor is critical.

My Warmest Regards,
Elizabeth