Preparing for a Planned C-section
Whether you are opting into a repeat cesarean after having one in a previous pregnancy, your baby is breech and vaginal birth is not an available option, you have placenta previa or another medical anomaly, or you just request one… planned c-sections are birth and deserve attention, preparation, and support.
I often tell my clients who are having a planned c-section to build out their support system for postpartum, instead of focusing on birth support.
Here are three tips on ways you can prepare for a planned c-section:
Make sure you have a second person available for emergency support after the birth.
Babies born via c-section are slightly more likely to need NICU admission (find study here), and while I hope this doesn’t happen to you or your family, it’s important to be prepared! NICU admission is a possibility for all births, but during a cesarean, you will still be numb and immobile for a few hours after the delivery, and you also just had surgery so don’t expect to be jumping up right after the spinal wears off to join baby. Usually, your partner will go with the baby to the NICU, but it’s important to your physical and mental well-being that you also have a non-medical support person and advocate present to stay with you for the crucial time post-delivery. This can be a birth doula, your mom or sister, or any close friend you trust.
Even if you don’t want a second support person at the birth, think about having someone on call in case your one support person gets pulled away. Write their phone number on your birth plan in case a nurse needs to call them if you are incapacitated.
Set up stations on each floor of your home where you can comfortably sit and take care of your baby.
I know everyone heralds walking as the magic way to recover faster from a c-section, but don’t be afraid to let yourself be in survival mode for the first week or two. Have stations around your home you can move to that have baby feeding supplies, diapers, wipes, snacks, and a water bottle. Extra points for a plugged-in phone charger, a good book, or TV remote!
I’ve had many clients also tell me that moving a recliner into their most used area was very helpful because they could use the lever to help them get up and down easier without straining their incision too much.
Build out postpartum support for at least the first two weeks.
The first two weeks are usually the hardest part of recovery after a c-section. After that you should be feeling a little more like yourself and have increased mobility. Especially if you have other kids, make sure you have someone in-home lined up to support you as you recover. Not taking the time to recover initially usually just sets you up for a longer recovery and more physical issues.
This can be a great time to have your partner take off work, have a family member come into town, or consider hiring a postpartum doula for some educated and unbiased support.
Most importantly, practice giving yourself grace. You may need to rely on others in order to make sure you and baby are set up for a healthy and happy start, but soon you’ll be back on your feet and ready to conquer this new life with a beautiful addition to your family.
Happy Birthing!
