C-section experiences (elective)

Hey guys

I'm wondering if I could get some feedback from people who have had c-sections...From what I understand, there can be some differences between elective and emergency...but I would love to hear both types of experiences...

I've recently found out, that after months of getting myself prepared for a vaginal birth, that due to some past gynaecological surgery (I had uterine fibroid embolisation in 2002), I may not be able to have the vaginal delivery I was hoping for.

The embolisation (it's when they inject microspheres into your uterine artery that then block off the blood supply to troublesome fibroids, which then shrivel up and die), may have caused scarring on my uterus, which makes the uterus more susceptible to rupture during contractions...which then possibly leads to a whole lot of nasty outcomes - including hysterectomy (worst case scenario). I'm in the process of educating myself about this...reading lots of scientific journal articles as well as trying to go with my own 'gut instinct' of what to do...

So...in trying to get my head around the possibility of a c-section, I thought it might be helpful to hear some mother's experience of the whole process...

I really don't want this thread to be a debate about c-sections...there's plenty of those around the internet already...but purely just experiences from people who have had c-sections...this is what I would love to know...

• what was it like?
• good aspects of the surgery?
• not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
• involvement of your partner/DH?
• amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?
• recovery issues?
• tips for good recovery?
• any issues with breastfeeding?
• tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?

Many thanks for your help and advice...

* what was it like? Well mine wasn't elective but it was very calm and serene in theatre, but I wasn't. Everyone was happy and joking. The actual surgery was painful at first as the spinal hadn't taken effect so they had to step back and wait a few minutes after the initial incision. After the spinal took, I could feel pressure and pulling inside which was a very weird sensation I have trouble explaining.
* good aspects of the surgery? uhhhh....... The mood was very relaxed once in theatre.
* not-so-good aspects of the surgery? the spinal not taking effect and feeling the incision
* involvement of your partner/DH? DH had huge involvement, he watched and he held Matilda as she was passed straight to him, he took her over to the corner after saying hello to me & he took his shirt off and had skin to skin with her prior to her being weighed & checked. He stayed with her until she was put onto my breast.
* amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? She was attached to my breast before leaving the theatre.
* recovery issues? Painful 3 days but up and walking after 12 hours.
* tips for good recovery? move as soon as you can.
* any issues with breastfeeding? My milk took weeks to come in properly.
* tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? have a look at Brooke's birthplan, B456. And a few others with planned c/s. There are points you can cover like keeping the cord pulsating etc... just that you have to know & be prepared for straight away.

I had an emergency/elective c-sect at 32 weeks 4 days... Ie I chose a c-sect straight away rather than trying for a vaginal birth first...

what was it like? ... an unusual feeling.. I had a spinal block.. I could feel movement but no pain... I didnt want to see anything though.. I dont like gorey stuff LOL

good aspects of the surgery? I knew exactly when my baby would be born & that there would be less stress for Alexa being prem, I knew that DH could be there too where if I had tried for a vag first & ended up a c-sect under general he would not have been allowed in...

not-so-good aspects of the surgery? Not being mobile unaided till the next day.. my c-sect was 2.30pm...

involvement of your partner/DH? ... Jeff was with me for the whole thing, standing beside me watching the operation patting my head telling me I was doing a good job LOL... he also cut alexas cord (once the Drs had her out & cut it)

amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? For me I didnt get to cuddle Alexa till the next day (she was in an incubator).. but once I was out of recovery about an hour after she was born they wheeled me & my bed up to NICU to see her...

recovery issues? None for me... I went to a wedding 3 days after my c-sect was a bit painful & slow moving...( i was supposed to be matron of honour...oops)

tips for good recovery? Mens boxers are great LOL... but having a good support network & take up any offers of help you can... dont be a hero too soon LOL...

any issues with breastfeeding? I had a poor supply & ended up F/Feeding, but keep in mind Lexy was 8 weeks early... & I hadnt even increased a cup size LOL

tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? dont really have any... didnt have that long to think about it...

HTH...
Good luck

Mine was emergency(though all c/s's that are done after labour starts are called emergencies), and I really really wish I had of had a birth plan in case of a c/s.
My ds was taken away as soon as he was born for all the weighing and cr*p and it devastated me emotionally. So I would have to say have a detailed birth plan saying you want to hold your bub immediately, and your bub and partner are to go to recovery with you(unless of course either one of you need immediate medical attention!). So to make it as much like a natural birth as possible, that way you can do the first breastfeed straight away and do the bonding thing, unlike myself who was left alone being stiched up while my partner and new baby went off somewhere else.:cry:

after 11.5 hours of contractions - I had an emergency c/s. My babies back was on my back, and the first few hours were the most painful thing I could ever experience. I had an epidural at 3cm dialated. Then the labour stopped progressing at 7cm, and baby & mum were 'in distress'. (I was 38yo at the time). I also had a large cyst on my ovary which was removed after Shaun was birthed. I am having an elective c/s for my next birth.

what was it like? It was not so bad for me. After the prepping, they got Shaun out so quickly! evern though it was emergency, it was not traumatic for me.
good aspects of the surgery? No pain. Being awake and seeing Shaun pulled out. I will ask if I can have the sheet lowered for baby #2. Having my husband holding my hand and taking photos. And just the atmosphere was calm & quiet.
not-so-good aspects of the surgery? I had 2 epidurals, and as they were wheeling me into surgery the 2nd epidural hadn't taken in a certain spot on my back (I was in agony at that spot) so I needed a spinal block as well.
involvement of your partner/DH? He was terrific. He was taking photos and explaining what was happening.
amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? Immediately after Shaun was removed, they wrapped him in a blanket and put him on my chest. And the nurses took photos of DH, myself & Shaun. I was able to hold him for quite a while. I guess that was the only time I really welled up and got emotional. He was so beautiful. I didn't get to breastfeed him, as I had to have further surgery to remove the cyst.
recovery issues? I recovered really well. My incision was 'glued' so I never had to return to remove stitches. The scar healed really quickly. I was walking the following day (I gave birth at 9.30pm) - and I didn't have any pain killers as I really didn't feel any pain. Never sufferend any PND, not even baby blues. And I discovered that I was allowed to drive whenever I felt ready - unless the doc said I couldn't . You can check with your insurance company to see if they have any restrictions, but RACV didn't.
tips for good recovery? As someone else said... try to move about.
any issues with breastfeeding? I think I would have had issues regardless of which birth I had. My breast size never increased, and I had some serious stress & illness prior to giving birth - so I don't think milk ever came in. I went to lactation centres and persisted for weeks... but Shaun was on formula from day 3...
tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? You've carried your baby inside you for 9 months, and you will take care of that child the rest of your life. Don't feel any guilt or regret for having a c/s. You do what you can for yourself and your child.

I am just going to see if I can have my baby in the recovery room with me. After giving birth, they took Shaun to the maternity ward to get weighed etc. Although it's on a different floor - I hope they will allow #2 to be bought back to me in the recovery room...

With DD1, I had an emergancy CS as she was stuck and in wrong position and distressed. The bad point was I was not prepared at all for this eventuality and tho op went fine, but recovery was hell as body had been thru so much having laboured so long first. I also developed a UTI from catheter being removed by a silly nurse before I could feel and her having to put one back in (she didn't use a sterile one as she couldn't get it in and was putting it wrong area and not changing to new one before trying again). This caused stress and pain and my milk went out the door 24hrs after it came in. I tried to be tuff and didn't ask for help and I ended up in more pain and depressed and thinking Kat would be better off without me (had a touch of PND).
DH was in the theater with me and he saw Kat being removed, she was taken to SCN and I sent him with her as he couldn't stay with me anyway. It took me another 2hrs to be let out of recovery and Dh was crying he was so worried about me. No-one gave him updates or anything. This was not nice. I didn't tell the nurses how much pain I was in and I just kept trying to ignore it. Hence they saw me walking around doing everything and didn't believe that I had the UTI nor that I was in pain ("if you're in pain how come you were doing this?" I didn't want to bother them!). It took them 5 days to realise I DID have a BAD uti and the day after they gave me antibiotics, the pain was better and I could sit long anough to give Kat a good go at the breast. But as I said, milk supply was gone by then.
With DD2, it was a booked cs due to unstable lie. Good points were: I knew when she'd be born, I hadn't laboured so recovery was quicker and smoother, Dh talked to NUM and told him how I'd been treated last time and how scared I was of it happening again like this. NUM was fantastic and made sure I was well looked after, given adequate pain relief and help and I was given a private room so DD1 could run around and not upset anyone else. DH was allowed in theater, the epidural was a bit of a trial, but because I'd met the Dr's while waiting to be preped and talked to them, I felt very comfortable with their abilities and the main Ob had a great sense of humour which I loved. I because Jess had good apgars, Dh and I were allowed to cuddle jess in OR and she was put straight to breast in recovery before Dh and her had to go(make sure you tell them this if it's part of your birth plan!). The Ob was fantastic and she let DH take pics as soon as jess was out, one of the nurses even took the camera from John and snapped him cutting the cord and the weight etc. DH took her straight from recovery to the room and waited for me. I was up walking and showering myself less than 12hrs later and I knew what to expect pain wise so I found it easier to tolerate the pain as I knew It would only hurt/burn when I moved to start and it would settle down as I kept going or if I stopped and didn't move so I knew I could get thru the initial bad pain. I knew I could ask for help (nurses had been told what had happened last time and were more willing to help this time) and everything went a lot better. I was in for around a week both times, but the second time, I felt more capable and ready to go home. I felt more stable and that I was healing better and not in so much pain.
My tips would be, don't be a marter, if you're in pain, tell them. Have a plan and know what you want and let them know what you want. It may sound stupid, but if you don't ask, they often won't offer so know your choices and rights. Ask for help for the first few crucial days. Don't let them treat you like you're annoying them. It's their job to be there to help after a c/s. Make use of the night staff if you feel exhausted and need a good sleep cause once ur home, you'll have no-one else to give you that good sleep *L*.

I hope this has helped in some way..

I had an emergency csection after a failed induction. I was 11 days overdue and had had regular ctg monitoring which indicated there was some foetal distress. Was induced with membrane rupture....(arrgh) and they scraped baby's head. Contractions started straight away but bubs heart rate dropped immediately..they wanted to give me a general then and there but I begged to be awake. The experience wasnt that bad really. Previously I had had a forceps delivery after baby had gone into distress, with only a morphine shot several hours earlier..you can imagine how painful that was so comparitively the experience was good.

After those two births, I was scared...traumatised really by the whole birthing experience. With dd3 I chose the elective c section route, I felt then I would have more control. With ds was really given little choice with my history but it went well despite my fears regarding the epidural.

Recovery time fairly quick for me. In each case I was up and walking around the next morning and after two days was off pain relief. I didnt feel that breastfeeding was hindered by my csections. While Sammy was put with me to feed in recovery, Emmy and Olivia were whisked away and it wasnt until i was back in the room that we could start.

Not so good aspects of the surgery are the epidurl/spinal block. With Olivia, I had it hit a nerve so shot up into the air screaming. It was the most horrible feeling. With Sammy I had an epidual put in but after he was born my pain levels were really really high and they were quite alarmed because my BP was racing...they found it had come out of my back and liquid was going everywhere. Two not so pleasant aspects.

Positives are - it is quick...you can often know the day that you are delivering your baby so can plan ahead.

HTHs

Jo

Many thanks to Christy, Mitch, Becmc, Jodie259, Katkins, Jo and Niass for taking the time to share your experiences with me...

It has really helped...I so appreciate your openness and experience in this area...

Anyone else with a c-section experience...I would love to hear how you went...

Thanks again chickies!

Hi Monnie
I've had two elective c-sections.

what was it like? It did feel a little wierd...a tugging sensation but no pain, and there seemed to be a lot of people in the room (in reality probably only 4 or 5 plus my DH and me)
good aspects of the surgery? It was quick, no pain (not even from the epi), very good ob who gave me all the facts and risks and presented all the options
not-so-good aspects of the surgery? just the fact that it is surgery and there are risks involved, thankfully I didn't experience any of those risks in reality
involvement of your partner/DH? He was there the whole time, he declined to cut the cord as he's a bit squeamish, but he had big cuddles with DD and helped weigh and clean her up
amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? I held her straight away, then they stitched me up while they weighed her etc, then she was brought straight back to me.
recovery issues? None... the ob was an excellent surgeon and I had no post-op pain whatsoever. I took the necessary precautions with heavy lifting etc but all went well.
tips for good recovery? Follow the post-op advice and get up and moving as soon as possible. Good mental preparation is important... I think it's good if you can be as prepared as possible (mentally, physically, emotionally)
any issues with breastfeeding? My milk came in on day two but even with LC advice on attaching etc, I developed ulcers and stopped after a few weeks.
tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? I think it's really important to know all the risks, and let the possibility "in" to your head that some of those risks might come true. Accept that it is surgery, write a birth plan that you're happy with that will also work within any surgical constraints put upon you by the hospital. Don't blindly accept as fact the myth that you will be unable to breast feed because you've had a c-section.... arm yourself with lots of breastfeeding info and classes before and after birth. As with all births, be flexible. The creation, birthing and parenting of babies is such a dynamic, fluid thing.... have a plan, but be ready to embrace change if needs be.


All the best. I hope this info is helpful :)

I had an in labour caesarean.

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what was it like?

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Unnatural, cold, scary, nauseating, unnecessary, like being a paralysed puppet with people pulling my limbs around. The pressure on my fundus was massive and I had no idea at the time why that was happening.

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good aspects of the surgery?

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None. I didn't actually need it. Personally I can't imagine a good aspect to any surgery, I didn't enjoy my appendectomy either but at least it was necessary.

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not-so-good aspects of the surgery?

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PTSD nearly four years laters and counting - nightmares, depression, flashbacks, hypervigilance
being suicidal when my baby was 6 months old
a scar
a scalpel wound on his head and damage to his neck and head from the forceps used to lift him out
not giving birth to my baby
not knowing I had been given a suppository of a major narcotic to which I had not consented or that my legs were splayed open and a swab inserted in my vagina to check for bleeding which left me with painful scratching
having a catheter although I had it removed asap when I got out of recovery
my baby not having an optimal start to life, being cut off his cord way too early and handled under bright lights by complete strangers who didn't love him
having people tell me it was no big deal when it shattered my life
staff refusing to allow my baby in recovery even though I was the only woman in there

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involvement of your partner/DH?

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He was wonderful. Right there, holding my free hand, then had skin to skin with our son while I was alone in recovery being mocked by the staff for wanting to breastfeed my newborn

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amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?

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About three hours. No medical need, they just refused to allow him in recovery. I will never recover from the grief of that.

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recovery issues?

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Physical recovery was totally fine. I went home the same day as the surgery and had no difficulty at all. I took a bit of panadol now and then.
Emotional recovery is much harder. i worked very hard at it and made sure I had dealt with everything I could before I conceived my second child. That was exactly two years after the surgery.

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tips for good recovery?

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Take lots of arnica because the bruising is extreme from having all those layers of muscle cut
lots of Emergency Essence/Rescue Remedy for physical shock
lots of vit c and zinc to aid soft tissue recovery
insist on immediate skin on skin while you're being stitched up, insist that you baby is in recovery with you, you can never get those hours back and they are crucial to your baby and you and especially breastfeeding
make sure you have a good probiotic for you and one for your baby. Their guts are permanently altered by inappropriate colonisation from not being born vaginally hence their higher rates of asthma and allergies. Breastfeeding the recommended minimum of two years will also help there.
Make sure you have a long babymoon with massive amounts of support in case you need extra care or are readmitted to hospital with complications. A freezer of meals and friends on rotation can help.
Spend every moment lying with your baby, having skin to skin, breastfeeding and trying to get those hormones into gear to avoid PND.
Make sure you have lots of emotional support to debrief.

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any issues with breastfeeding?

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Despite being able to latch him onto my oedematous nipples (epidurals do that to you, the ABA has information on some ways to help your baby deal with it) I had no milk making activity at all until day 8. I had a great deal of support from my MW, a LC, and my naturopath. We used a feedline for about 48 hours with formula. He breastfed till he weaned himself at about 2 1/2 years.

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tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?

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Get as much information as you can about whether or not it's necessary. Many complications of birth are far more likely than UR even in a woman whose had multiple surgeries. Once you've had one you will always have that scar and the ramifications of it in the current poorly evidenced hospital environment.
In a medically necessary caesarean, have a birth plan and involve the hospital staff so they are clear with your needs. Do not let anyone tell you "hospital policy" means you can't have certain things. It doesn't. You are not a hospital, therefore hospital policy does not apply to you.
You can have skin on skin, a lotus birth, no hep b and vit k or whatever YOU want.
Insist on no comp feeding if your baby has to go to SCN with breathing difficulties. This is not unusual with c-sec babies. My son had a few weird breathing experiences but I think this was largely because of his premature placenta removal as he was actually less mucussy than my vaginally born daughter.

I wish you much luck if you choose surgery and I hope you have lots of support for your recovery. My vaginal birth was long and hard work and I'd do it again in a heartbeat.

For my c-section I felt absolutely nothing. Id had 2 shots of epidural (maybe 3 I cant remember) and I got the uncontrolable shakes from it. I remember saying to my husband "Have they started yet" and then he said "Well theres the baby so I think they have". Im not saying that I was so out of it that I didnt know what was going on, I was just so relaxed cos all of the pregnancy pain had gone. I got to cuddle my daughter before she and my husband went off and I went to recovery. I was in recovery for 45mins and then I was up to my room again and the next morning I was up at 5.00am having a shower.

A few things that were a bit icky for me were
- When they gave me the second epidural shot my blood presure went down really low and I started dry reaching (they give u something in your drip as soon as this starts to stop it so it was only for like a minute)
- Recovery was not so nice cos after Id been there for about 30 mins they wheeled in this guy and he was coughing and spewing everywhere and I mean everywhere.
- The pain killers that they gave me at night (wasnt that much pain they just gave them to me anyway) are up your bum ones however they work really really well and really really fast.
- The next day when they take all the tubes out of u and u go in for that wonderful shower, a nurse washes u. She is in the shower with u while your bleeding everywhere and your bits are hanging out. They are used to this so dont let it get to u. By that time I was soooooo used to everything hanging out that it didnt bother me at all. I was just grateful for the shower. U do have a sponge bath the day of the surgery too.

Take a hair dryer too so u can dry your c-section cut/stitched up bit out too after a shower. That helps heaps too.

I didnt breast feed cos Im on injection medication that stops me from doing that however this time around Im gonna try breastfeeding cos the medication makes u feel sick all the time anyways.

I a rather large lady (Size 20 and now size 22-24 due to pregnancy on the pants side of things) and I didnt have any medical problems at all apart from High Blood Presure during pregnancy. My scar was healed about a week after surgery and I didnt have any pain after a few days (and the pain I did have was very minimal). I also lost a lot of weight (13kgs) about 2 weeks after having my daughter so the weight from pregnancy did come off.

I didnt know that u could request to breastfeed while in surgery. Im gonna do that for sure cos when Id gotten back to my room about an hour later, apparently my daughter had been screaming the whole time wanting to be fed and they wouldnt give her a bottle til I got back even though the hospital new she had to be bottle fed.

* what was it like?
I was really scared the first time but no where near as bad as I though. 2nd time round although nervous I knew what was happening and was able to talk myself through it. I hate the numb feeling.. I am already dreading having an epidural. It didn't hurt at all but I hate feeling numb. I also had a panic attack the first time but I was scared.. Thats why I think asking as many questions from people who have had c/s is a great idea..

* good aspects of the surgery?
It was quick it was painless (till later)
* not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
the numb feeling as I said I above I hate it. The longer recovery but to be honest I was sore "down there" after my natural delivery for around 3 days. with my c/s although I was sore it was only painful for the first 24-48 hours. After that you just learnt to deal with it
* involvement of your partner/DH?
He was there for almost the whole time.. I went into theatre and he thinks it was around 30-40 mins later he joined me for the birth of our sons. He was able to hold the baby straight away and was also able to go with baby to be weighed bathed ect.
* amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?
Well I got to hold them both in theatre but only for a short time. With my first son he was brought to my room around 2 hours old. My second son was in a humidicrib so I wasn't able to see him till he was 11 hours old. However my sister took the camera with all the pics on it and developed the photo's so I was able to look at him anytime I wanted. Not the best situation but it got me thru.
* recovery issues?
none really.. Although make sure they give you one of those triangle things above your bed. With my second the MW wouldnt let me have one and I had an extremly sore back from the way I was getting in and out of bed. I was very lucky with my recovery. I also only took panadol for the first couple days after that I just rested as much as possible.
* tips for good recovery?
rest and drink plenty of water. Then after day 1 walk as much as possible without overdoing it to help healing. make sure you know your limits. it is very easy to overdo things. When standing hold your stomach and stand tall. Don't slouch. Don't stay in bed for long periods as you get very stiff. Also be careful of the way to sleep. I slept on my side as it was the only comfortable position but the way I was laying caused me to get a bad back ache. I needed to support myself better.
* any issues with breastfeeding?
none that related to the c/s. My 2n son was ill (unrelated to c/s) and I expressed. My 3rd was a champion and we only stopped Breastfeeding 2 weeks ago ages 21 months.
* tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?
read all the responses on here. and realise that you may have all or only some of the same things. Just make yourself aware of how it is going to go..

couple of tips of my own..

If they offer you a anal suppository. I highly recommend it. It is gross and embarrasing but OMG it worked. I had one for my back ache (unrelated to c/s) from not getting in and out of bed properly. I left it till I was in so much pain. I wish I had taken them up the first time they offered it

When you stand for the first time it is going to hurt like all hell.. I freaked the first time but the 2nd time round I knew what to expect so I just kept taking very deep breaths and saying its all good its all good.. oh and your hold your tummy. The nurses and mw do know what they are talking about.. Listen to what they say they wouldn't have you do something that would do you any damage.

Oh and have a shower as soon as you can. It will make you feel so much better. Also hopefully a MW will suggest this but if they don't.. A maternity pad against your scar is a great support thingo.. It helps protect it from your undies and clothes,

When you go to the toilet for the first time it does hurt to sit and do your business.. not necessarily the business side (wee) but the sitting and standing. and the pulling up of your underwear. number 2 side of things. it will just happen when it happens.

if you have to cough hold a pillow against your tummy. I had a niggling cough the day before and for 3 days after my 2nd c/s. not amusing I can tell you but a pillow against your tummy helps. laughing is also slightly painful LOL but once again a trusty pillow helps.

When breastfeeding definetly use a pillow to support your baby in the right position and sit in a comfy chair not a hard backed one. lean back slightly if you need to don't lean forwards as it will hurt when you next stand up. So remember not to hunch.. Stand and sit tall at all times..

Good luck.. I hope I have helped

oh and I forgot to add. In recovery I felt really weird. I go numb right up high.. My face goes tingly. I freak a little but as the nurses and the aeneathitist (sp) (knocker outer guy) :) said I am hooked to machines that monitor my vitals so if anything is going wrong they will know.

I also got the shakes but I think that is related to the epidural.

I forgot about all those things Aussienic. I was racing around my room one day there cos I was about to sneeze and didnt have my pillow to put against my stomach. oh and the toilet thing too I forgot about. I asked for a natural laxative to help that along (u know the orange drink). Made very thing a bit loose (Sorry TMI) so there was no straining.

what was it like?
I have to admit i was terrified - this wasnt in my birth plan at all!! Having said that neither was being induced, and having an epidural!! It was a bit surreal and I was pretty nauseous the whole time. At one point I said - Oh I need to brush my teeth - my breath is awful! Ha ha the anaethestist commented that its funny what you think of minutes after you have been cut open and beofre your baby arrives!!
good aspects of the surgery?

not-so-good aspects of the surgery? Just being a bit scared and feeling lightheaded and sick.

involvement of your partner/DH? Oh he got to help clean her up and cut the cord and brought her over to me and held her near me while they stitched me up!! Great!

amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? Physically holding her - about 30 minutes but while getting stitched i was able to stroke her face and head etc.

recovery issues? Is painful -but now 2 weeks on I find it hard to rest coz I feel pretty good generally and am trying not to do too much.

tips for good recovery? - Eat well, and REST as much as you cna especially in the first week and in hospital, drink lots of water too!

any issues with breastfeeding? My milk didnt come in until day 5 when i went home and we had to top her up as she was big and hungry all the time!!

tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? Mmm hard one - Aussienics suggestions are great!

Oh i got the shakes too - but had them during labour - i think its my bodys way of dealing with stress!!

Good luck with it all!!

Thank you everyone for sharing. I'm following this thread with great interest and have read all your posts several times.

what was it like? I loved the morning of my elec c-sect, it gave DH and I to enjoy the last of my pregnancy, almost like waiting for morning at Christmas. Having my parents around as well was nice as they were involved but knew to give us space

good aspects of the surgery? DH has the most amazing photos of Eliza being born, my insides all out, and finally I had a beautiful breathing baby.

not-so-good aspects of the surgery?My placenta was sliced and I haemoraghed, I was finally a mother yet I thought I was going to die. DH had left with DD and MW so it was just me almost like he got the prize and I was left.

involvement of your partner/DH? He was involved from the word go, he put his scrubs on with the Obst. The anaestist talked to him about the operation and when to get ready

amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? I held her after the AGPARs were done then DH left with her..it was 4 hrs later I got to see her again :(

recovery issues? A bit sore, could get out of bed the next morning unaided.

tips for good recovery? Dont do too much in the first 12 hrs...buzz nurses all the time DD was in my room yet I couldnt reach her...so buzzz

any issues with breastfeeding? No supply at all till day 10, DD had massive weight loss and SCN NGT'd

tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? It was a little surreal for me too, it was an out of body experience. I didnt cry after it, I had been doing IVF for 4 years and lost 2 babies you would of thought I would of.

Again...thanks so much guys...this post is really helping me...

The sharing of your experience is just great!

Like Marydean, I'm reading the posts several times...

Any more experiences are appreciated!

Hi -

* what was it like? I had an emergecny CS the first time and it was quick and I didn't really know what was going on. I had an elective the second time and it was great - a lot calmer, I was nervous and cracked jokes the whole way down and howled when they pulled Alex out.

* good aspects of the surgery? I knew what was going on and when it was going to happen. With the emergency CS after labour stalled after being 13 days overdue, it was a mess and I was disorientated. Cait was no where near ready to come out and I should not have been induced but I did not know that at the time. But with the elective, I knew what was going on. Tres happy with it.

* not-so-good aspects of the surgery? Feeling exposed while I was cleaned up. I could feel them washing me down there and it was bit gross.

* involvement of your partner/DH? Was there for it all except the spinal block. Went back upstairs both times with the babies while I was in recovery. He cut the cord, posed for pics.

* amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? I think they cleared him out and bought him straight back.

* recovery issues? Hurt the second day but was up and about. Planned daughters 4th birthday party 2 weeks after, I don't recommend that !

* tips for good recovery? Don't lift wet washing.

* any issues with breastfeeding? First time was hard and took about 6 weeks to get into. Second time I had so much more milk and he fed like a dream from the first hour.

* tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? I was really busy in the days leading up to it but still didn't sleep much the night before.

I just read about mums not being able to hold their babies - I had no trouble either time, you can't really roam the halls with them straight away, but I sat in the bed and the chair a lot with them.


Good Luck !

Will add my 2 cents in here Monnie :)

what was it like? I had my 40wk check up at 8am on a Friday, and ended up stairs in the ward that arvo. A nice dr came around the next morning (after I had been awake all night) and wanted to give me something to make things "progress faster" I declined, pushed for 2 hours before being asked questions about my tailbone, and was told my baby was stuck. She was born via emergency c/s Sunday morning just after 3am! A long labour, which didn't help with my recovery time.

good aspects of the surgery? - I got to finally have a sleep after 43 hours LOL! Seriously though, I had a beautiful healthy baby.


not-so-good aspects of the surgery? Spinal didn't work (not sure if they left enough time for it to take effect or not?) and I was given a GA. My DH was sitting there all by himself with no support, hearing every word they said about myself and DD.


involvement of your partner/DH? Not a lot, poor thing. I had no birth plan in case of a c/s, but the midwife made him go back to the ward with DD. So he got to cuddle her for a few hours before I came back.

amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? This was about 3-4 hours, only because of the GA though.


recovery issues? Took a while for me to get my energy back. I had DH help me get dressed - mainly putting my knickers on and pulling them up far enough for me to do the rest.


tips for good recovery? I had a workmate who had 2 previous c/s, tell me that should I end up having one the first thing to do was get out of bed ASAP. She said her Dr told her it might hurt, but getting up out of bed uses muscles which then start healing.
Midwives were planning on getting me out of bed that afternoon, but I was so tired it wasn't funny. I got out of bed the next morning and had a shower.


any issues with breastfeeding? None, DH bought her in to the room and the midwife helped me get DD on the breast straight away even though I was still groggy as hell!

tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? Would love to be able to suggest something, but we haven't managed to get the 2nd bub happening yet :)

I second Aussienic's suggestion on the pillow on your tummy while coughing I also did the pillow on tummy when I went to the loo, for no other reason than it gave me mental comfort I suppose!

Goodluck Monnie!

Nic

Thanks again guys...again so helpful!

I found a book in my local bookstore today...it's called "delivery by appointment" and is basically a whole book (Australian) about c-sections...

It takes a very moderate stance...tells both sides of the c-section story...I'm half way through it and are finding it very helpful...

It's written by a mother who has had 4 c-sections...and is NOT a book debating the pros and cons...just stating the facts on either sides...very research based...the author is Michelle Hamer...

Thanks again for these experiences...muchly appreciated!

My first & last were c/secs. Both emergencies. I was in labour for both, although not advanced.
I asked for a GA the second time because I HATED the feeling of the epidural. Also, DD was premature so I knew she was going straight off to NICU.
I was thrilled with my recovery the second time. I had the PCA out within 10 hours and took oral Endone. Up & in the shower as soon as the PCA was out. I have never heard of the rectal suppositories, but Monnie, it's just a different way of taking meds. In Europe suppositories for EVERYTHING are sooo common.
For the second delivery, we had a little time to plan (she just ended up coming even earlier). I had organized a midwife to be with DH. He had to be out of theatre just for a minute while they actually put me out, but was there the entire time before & after. The midwife was great about supporting him, explained everything, went with him to NICU, spent several hours with him even though the delivery took place at 2 am.
There were issues with breastfeeding both times... the milk took 5 full days to come in. With my vaginal deliveries, the milk was in within 24-48 hours.
Monnie, having seen your other posts, would still encourage a vaginal delivery. Believe me if your OB felt very strongly about a c/sec, he would never have presented it as an "option".
One last word, as several people have said, if you have an emergency c/sec that happens at night & you've been in labour for ages, you will be so SLEEPY tired anyway for the next few days. An advantage of the planned c/sec is that you know it will take place during the day!! However, the same goes for vaginal deliveries. With one I laboured all night, baby born at brekky time. I was tired for several days. With the other, went into labour in early morning, born late evening so I was in bed by 11 pm. What a difference.

Thanks for posting about the book you found Monnie, I will write that one down for future reference :)

Just thought I would come back in and say I'm going for a lap next week and with all my admission paperwork, there is some pre and post op info. It says with coughing, you should brace the surgery site (if abdomen) with a pillow and cough at the end of the 5th deep breath, every hour. Don't know if that will be helpful or not, but I thought of you and this thread when I read it :)

Nic

Thanks guys

Nic...wishing you all the best for you lap...hope all goes well and you have #2 coming along really really soon...take care chickie!

And thanks for the hints...much appreciated!

Great thread Monnie, I hope you get the answers you are looking for.

I also had a failed induction – waters broke, got to 2cm if I was lucky after about 22hrs labour, induced then baby’s heartrate was dropping and she was distressed. She was born by emergency C/S and the cord was around her neck twice.

 what was it like?
Actually it was a really good experience. It was in my birth plan and although I really wanted a natural birth, I didn’t get upset when I had to have a c/s. No pain and a bit of tugging which the Ob told me about.

 good aspects of the surgery?
Amy was born at 4:16am so the hospital was quiet. The theatre was quiet and relaxing. The anaethatist (sp?) talked through every moment of the surgery which was great. There was my Ob, an assistant, two or three midwives (one took lots of photos) and a paedeatician. Although Amy had to be born ASAP, everyone was relaxed and there was music playing.

 not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
I didn’t get skin to skin contact as I was in a gown but will look into this for next time.

 involvement of your partner/DH?
DH was by my side during the surgery and peeking over the curtain. He then went with Amy when she was weighed and measured while I was being stitched up. He didn’t want to leave me but wanted to be with Amy too and it was in my birth plan that he go with her if I had a c/s. Also DH gave Amy her first bath and changed her nappy so that was also positive.

 amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?
She was bought to me after she was checked and wrapped and I think it was only a few minutes. When the midwife was bringing her to me, DH stepped in the way to hold her but the midwife bypassed him to bring her to me.

 recovery issues?
The epidural crept up to my shoulders so I was in recovery for a while. Amy had the best bf she would ever have in recovery and the two midwives that stayed by my side were lovely. It did hurt for a few days. I stopped pain relief after 2 days. Out of the physio class a few days after birth, I was in the least pain of all the mums and I was the only one that had a c/s. No short term or long term recovery problems. Scar healed really well.

 tips for good recovery?
Ditto to what the others have said – move around and brace your scar if you laugh, sneeze or cough. I had a normal double bed and it was hard to get up. Next time I will ask for a hospital bed so I have something to hang on to when I get up.

 any issues with breastfeeding?
My milk came in on day 4. Colostrum was syringed to Amy then she was comp fed and I never had much milk. I had a breast reduction 15 years ago but I am determined to bf this time. She attached okay but once she started on the bottle she wasn’t interested in bf. I expressed for 3 weeks but only got about 20-30ml each time.

 tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?
Relax. Know that this is a safe option to have your baby. Yes there are risks as there is with any surgery. Yes having a baby naturally is ideal but it isn’t to be for everyone and if you have a medical reason to have a c/s, then sometimes it is outside your control.

I am having an elective c/s with this baby for medical reasons and my own reasons.

what was it like?
i had an emergency c/s after 24 hours of labouring (although they tell me it wasn't labour because my contractions weren't close enough, well it bloody hurt anyway!)
i was out of it on general anasth. but i can tell you it was a million times better than the pain i'd been in, with only gas as pain 'relief'
i had no problem that I didn't have a vaginal birth, as long as the baby was safe and healthy, which he was. in fact he was perfect!

good aspects of the surgery?
happened pretty fast and i was out of it beforehand on gas so didn't know much of what was going on.

not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
not being awake when the baby was born, dh not being there, being sent straight off to dreamland and not seeing my baby until the next morning, cutting off the iv painkillers after 24 hours!

involvement of your partner/DH?
he was waiting in the waiting room, he saw and held the baby before he went home for the night

amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?
when i came out of recovery, they placed him on my chest, he looked at me and we said hello

recovery issues?
none, i was up and around in two days and healed quickly. i was driving the first week out of hospital. you're so tired and busy with the baby you don't have time to think about surgery or scars anyway.

tips for good recovery?
get up asap after the surgery, it will hurt but best get it over and done with. i think arnica tablets are good for healing too, i didnt' take them but i've had them for other surgery.

any issues with breastfeeding?
took a few extra days for my milk to come in properly, probably due more to the trauma of labour and fatigue than the actual operation. i hated it but that's not related to the operation!

tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?
going through that now (getting ready for possible second elective c/s) but i think not to worry, at least you won't have hours of agony to have your baby in your arms!!

Hi know the person who asked this has already had ber baby - congrats, but since others will read I thought I would add my experience

what was it like?
i had an elective c/s suggested due to my advanced age !! (36), twins and second baby was across, plus IVF (Dr said that we had been through so much to get this far wouldn't want to risk anything)

Anyway the hospital was fantastic. I had the boys at the day before 39 weeks so no expected worry health wise, the room was full of people, eg 2 nurses for babies etc. I had offered to donate my code blood but for some reason it can't be done for twins, but they asked if they can use it for training, though why not it was going to be thrown out anyway, so extra people there for that too.

The orderly (I think) was young and nice, laughed trying to guess if I was having boys or girls, he was easy to deal with and looked after me well. and he took photos with our camera as well as polaroids. The babies were both very healthly. As soon as Adam (1st) was born checked and wrapped DH had him to cuddle, then within minutes Hayden was born and once he was checked and wrapped I cuddled him (still covered with white vernix) cuddled him the whole time they were stitching me up. Then all four of us went to recovery, I breastfed Adam but Hayden didn't want any. We all left recover at the same time, DH and the boys to nursery to be weighed. I was hardly in my room and bed and DH cam in with the boys. Totally fantastic - the one thing I was worried about was being separated from them - didn't happen.

good aspects of the surgery?
Quick, no problems, being able to cuddle my boys straight away.

not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
Nothing - everything went better than I expected

involvement of your partner/DH?
Totally involved, they didn't bring him in the theatre till they had started cutting, but then he had to sit down (think so he couldn't see over the drape) but then totally involved in cuddling babies and cutting cord.

amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?
Only minutes

recovery issues?
Vomited a little that evening, but apart from that all was well.

tips for good recovery?
Walking, Since I wasn't allowed to drive for 6 weeks, I walked everywhere - pushing a twin pram! and I live in the hills.

any issues with breastfeeding?
No breastfed in recovery, just normal waiting for milk to come in, did lots of expressing in hospital encouraging it to come in, then would feed the boys that by surringe plus breastfeed them.

tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?
I was preparred for it from about 2 months before, Even though I originally wanted a Natural birth, I understood and didn't want to risk anything. I think accepting that you need to have a C/S makes it easier.

Ooh interesting thread - like Kelly W I just wanted to add my experience too in case others may read the same thread and find it useful....

what was it like?
I had a vaginal birth first time, second a totally unexpected emergency c-section, and third a planned c-section which was organised from early pregnancy. In terms of stressfulness and uncomfortableness, I would say the vaginal birth was the worst, then the planned c-section and the most pleasant was the emergency c-section. I think that was partly as having a lot of time to plan ahead and read up can cause undue worry, whereas the emergency c-section was upon me before I had a chance to even think about it let alone worry in advance.

good aspects of the surgery?
With both the caesarians, the process was well-organised and predictable. Highly competent medical staff were there for the job; the procedure was quick and my energy was relatively intact in order to respond to my newborn straight away.

not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
Feeling a little wounded for a few days afterwards.

involvement of your partner/DH?
I loved the level of hubby inclusion in the whole thing; he was treated respectfully by all the medical people and able to hold my hand and chat with me the whole time, then take photos/cut the cord/cuddle bub and assist me.

amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?
Baby was immediately handed to me for a cuddle when she emerged from my body.

recovery issues?
3 and a half days of feeling uncomfortable, then fine but just had to take things a little slowly: not too much walking around or stretching, and not to carry anything heavier than bub. I'm two weeks post c-section at the moment and am finding it fine although I do still need hubby around (he has 3 weeks leave from work) in the day to help with the kids and housework.

tips for good recovery?
Have somebody there, preferably your partner, to help with anything physical until you feel comfortably fit again.

any issues with breastfeeding?
My third bub breastfeeds beautifully - latched on and suckled well while I was in recovery and is a fantastic feeder. Milk came in properly on day 3.

tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?
Relax; trust that you will be in good hands; remember that millions of women have happily had c-sections before you.
:)

My husband was overseas with the Army and only got to come home for a week for the birth of our little one, so we decided on inducing my labor at 39weeks. The first two inductions did not take and unfortunately had to go for a third try (very painful process). This one took, but after 17 hours of labor, I only dilated 4cm, so we went for the c-section.
what was it like?
Very surreal. You go in and come out with a baby. I couldn’t feel or see anything, but the drugs made me feel very nauseous and I did end up being sick once baby was born.
good aspects of the surgery?
Over and done with very quickly and if you elect, you can plan your life around it without having to worry about your waters breaking in the supermarket or how long the labor will take.
not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
I don’t think I have connected as well with my bub as I would have if I had a vaginal birth. Also, when bub was born, he wasn’t breathing and they had to stick a tube down to his lungs to suck out all the gunk. My husband didn’t realize this could happen and really freaked out. He was really upset by it. (Apparently in vaginal births, going down the birth canal helps squeeze the gunk all out.)
involvement of your partner/DH?
My husband stayed with me and watched the birth. He got to hold bub for over an hour while I was in recovery. This gave them great bonding time and I am so glad they got that opportunity, especially seeing he had to go away again. He took photos of the operation and of bub coming out.
amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby?
I got to hold bub as soon as they got him breathing and while they were stitching me up for about ten minutes, and then he went with my husband to get weighed etc. He stay with his Dad for about an hour while I was in recovery.
recovery issues?
No problems. Being on my own from Day 5 I was forced to get up and on with it and was back to washing, cooking and looking after bub with no trouble. I started driving again at three weeks. To be honest, I don’t understand why everyone makes a fuss about the recovery time with c-sections, although I haven’t had a vaginal birth to compare it to.
tips for good recovery?
Really take it easy the first few days. Get some Ingrown hair cream – Ingrow Go is good. I got the worst ingrown hairs in my scar and this caused my scar to take a long time to heal.
any issues with breastfeeding?
I didn’t get a chance to breast feed until I was back in my room a couple of hours later. I had trouble attaching the first few days, but once bub and I got the hang of it, we haven’t had a problem since. He is now 7 months and still loves his boobies.
tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section?
You’ll be fine. Do some reading, so you know what is normal and what isn’t, so you don’t freak out like my hubby did.

Hi All,

I know this forum is a little old now, but I thought I'd share my experience anyway :)

what was it like?
Awesome. I knew I was having a C-section as I had asked for one. Was clearly advised by my OB GYN how everything was going to happen - so I felt really ready and prepared. Even went into the fact he was going to use staples on my wound instead of stitches as apparently it gives a neater scar. I don't know if this is true - but my scar is barely noticable now and very neat.
good aspects of the surgery?
I knew exactly when my little man was arriving and was calm and ready. We were booked in 1st thing on a Monday morning a week before I was due, so I was lucky enough to be able to work right up until the Friday prior. We arrived at the hospital at 6.30am to 'check in'. Was weighed, baby's heart rate checked, completed some forms, had some numbing cream put on my hand for the drip and met our mid-wives (who were fantastic!) Was taken in on my own to have the epidural at 8am - apparently partners are not allowed in during this time, but as soon as they started cutting, DF was able to come in. Little man was born at 8.30am. Happened SO quickly! They had him checked in the room by the paediatrician and given to Dad for a cuddle and a visit outside to see Nanny whilst they finished closing me up - and then all 3 of us went into recovery for about a half an hour when he had his first feed. He never left our sides for the remainder of the stay.
not-so-good aspects of the surgery?
I'm not going to sugar coat it, and I think the operative word is 'surgery' It is pretty major surgery, so expect to be in a bit of pain. I couldn't walk for about 24 hours afterwards so DF had to carry me into the bathroom so I could have a shower. I thing the trick is to get yourself mobile as soon as you can, but don't over do it. I took as little pain medication as I could so that I'd know if I was overdoing it. The second day in hospital I was up on my own (hobbling at first) and everyday it got easier. I got pretty bored as my little one would sleep non stop, so I used to walk the hallways pushing him in his bed for support. They recommend you stay in hospital for min 5 days but I discharged myself after 3 becuase I was feeling fine and felt well enough to be able to care for bubs on my own.
involvement of your partner/DH?
amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? About half an hour
recovery issues? I was lucky, my C-Section didn't really faze me too much, and I don't know if this is becuase I was prepared for it and knew what to expect? I went back to hospital a week afterwards for a final check of me and bubs and removal of my staples which was completely pain free
tips for good recovery? Kepping positive and keeping yourself moving
any issues with breastfeeding? None, my milk ran out after 8 weeks - but I don't know if this was because of the casearean as it's only my first
tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? Just ask your OB GYN exactly what is going to happen on the day. DO NOT read horror stories online about C-sections, they will only make you nervous. To an extent - your experience is helped by your attitude

Hope this helps

Ems
xx

* what was it like? - Mine was emergency after 1.5 days of the gels, they didn't work my cervix was posterior. I had a spinal, I freaked out because I couldn't move my legs, they had pins and needles, I wanted to move but couldn't, ended up having some morphine to help with that
* good aspects of the surgery? - The surgery was pretty relaxed for me
* not-so-good aspects of the surgery? - Just the feeling of the spinal
* involvement of your partner/DH? - Hubby was there with me for the beginning, the anethetists ended up taking the camera of hubby, after hitting him on the shoulder telling him to stand up as they bought DS out. Hubby then went to the other room to be with DS and could take heaps of photos and video and cut the cord
* amount of time between the surgery and holding your baby? - I didn't end up holding DS until I was back in the room about an hour after
* recovery issues? - I was sore (to be expected) I was up and about the next day, once they took out the catheter. Once I was up and about and home, my recovery was good
* tips for good recovery? - don't do too much, rest when you can, but still move around
* any issues with breastfeeding? - I attempted to breast feed but due to a breast reduction 6 years ago, it turned out I couldn't
* tips for getting yourself psychologically ready for a c-section? - After being induced and nothing happening after 1.5 days I was quite prepared to have a c section just to get it over and done with, I was over the gels not happening and over all the internals to see what was happening, and after seeing DS's head I was kinda glad he didn't come out the other way!!!!:lol: