Thank you ladies for taking the time to reply.

Charlotte, I am also having period-like pains in the evenings. One evening I actually started timing them because they were occurring so regularly - fortunately all was good by the morning. I still don't know what they would be called. It isn't like braxton hicks.

MrsS, it was my OB that suggested we address both issues at the same time. Basically then you don't need a separate hossy visit and general anesthetic (esp. not a good idea if you are BFing and have a little baby!). You also need to spend a couple of weeks taking it easy and not picking up heavy objects after the hernia op - which you will be avoiding doing anyway after a C-Section. So practically it is good to do them together when you have some support. Having said all of that, they are not using a mesh on my hernia because it is more painful and recovery could have more complications with the mesh. I am assuming you are going private if you are having an elective C-Section? If so, what you need to do is demand a c-section date from your OB. You also need to get him to write a referral letter to a general surgeon that will be working and available at the hospital at the same time as your c-section. You then need to get the hernia assessed by the surgeon and he / she should agree that an operation is necessary and it is viable to do it while you are under a spinal block. I hope you work it out. Don't lose sight of the fact that you are paying full-fees as a private patient and can demand that things are addressed at YOUR convenience.

It really helps knowing that I am not alone in this situation. Thanks again ladies