hey Meg,
I think you`ll be able to find a few other threads that have woman asking the same questions as you about how to prepare for a c.s, so have a look for them on here too

With my c.s it was elective and i think this really helped in my recovery, because i was able to prepare mentally for that and as others have said, its a huge weight off your shoulders knowing what to expect.
See if your dr/hospital can give you a tour of the operating theatre and let you know where you`ll go for prep and recovery etc. Mine did this and it was good to see where it would all be happening - that way too I wasnt in for a shock on D day when I saw the big white sterile room that it all happens in!
Basically, they will give you an appointment time often 1 -2 wks pre edd. You go in and get prepared and then they operate. They put up a screen so you cannot see the 'goo'. It all takes about 20 mins. Then you will go into recovery and your baby should be with you. After an hr or 2 you will be taken to your room. You`ll have a catheter, and drip and drugs atached to you, and they probably wont let you have anything to eat until they have it confirmed from you that you have 'passed wind'. Later in the day or usually the next day you will be told to get up and shower etc because the movement is good for your healing. In this intial recover day or 2 its often hard to pick up your baby, but they should be right there beside you or in bed with you if the nurse gives them to you. And there should be no reason that breastfeeding isnt begun as soon as your surgery has all been finished up.
Recovery time for everyone is different but by 6-8 wks you should be able to drive, carry out washing etc. But take it very easy in the first week if you can. Your bodies got a bit of work to do!

As C.s is what I know, having an elective one next time certainly has its appeal! It really doesnt need to be a traumatic experience. Keep asking questions and still have a think about a birth plan even for a c.s.
All the best.