I have had both but the benefit I feel with private over public, if you know you are definitiely having a c-section, is that you have the privacy of your own room for your recovery and have more of an opportunity to stay as long as you feel is necessary for your recovery. I was lucky enough to be able to have this in public though as well cause it was in a country town with small hospital. I have heard of numerous people being kicked out of public hospital after 3 days with a c-section and physically not being in the best position for going home. I have heard of the odd provate hospital trying to get you out after 4 days but most I have spoken with have generally indicated that you can stay as long as necessary.