What You Need to Know About a C-Section
For expecting mothers, imagining the day of delivery brings a variety of emotions. Mothers often experience excitement, pain, joy, relief and perhaps a bit of fear that something could go wrong. Thankfully, medical advances have made the birthing process safer and more comfortable. C-sections are becoming more common for medical and safety issues. Find out why some mothers need C-sections, what to expect if you need one, and how to best recover when the procedure is complete.
Some C-Sections Are Unavoidable
Most mothers-to-be are given the option of vaginal birth or a C-section for the delivery of their child. Even if you are planning for vaginal birth, when the time comes a C-section may be necessary due to uncontrollable factors. Statistics show that overweight mothers are more likely to need a C-section, so keeping weight down during pregnancy could be a key way to reducing the risk for surgical intervention. Other reasons include reduced fetal heart rate, the placement of the umbilical cord, or the position the baby is in during labor.
You Will Be Numbed but Awake
If you need to have a C-section to deliver your child, local anesthesia will be used to numb the pain, but you will still be awake for the procedure. You will feel pressure but no pain. The pain after the surgery, however, is comparable to vaginal birth, and in some cases even worse. Many mothers also report a headache that lasts several days from the anesthesia.
You Don’t Need to Forfeit Time with Your Newborn
When the delivery is complete, you can request to see your newborn child and start breastfeeding. Unless either you or your child has major health complications, this should not be an issue; however, you may need to specifically ask the nurses.
Take Steps to Aid in Your Own Recovery
As soon as you are able, get up and walk around to increase blood flow and heart rate. This can help prevent blood clots and bowel issues that typically come with surgery. Make sure your diet consists of healthy proteins and nutrients that help in the healing process, such as vitamins A and C and zinc.
C-sections can come with some risks, but in many cases are safer for the mother and child. Be prepared for all possibilities to reduce stress when you bring your bundle of joy into the world. If you have more questions regarding the birthing process, contact Women’s Medical Associates of Nashville. Your physician can attend to your needs to get you the best care possible.