What to expect during your cesarean delivery
As your due date approaches, it's natural to feel a mix of anticipation and nerves. And if you're scheduled for a cesarean delivery, it's perfectly normal to have questions about the experience and what to expect.
Why might you need a cesarean delivery?
First, it's important to note that not all women need or have a cesarean delivery. In fact, according to the CDC, the overall cesarean delivery rate in the United States was 31.9% in 2018. However, in certain cases, a cesarean delivery may be planned or recommended by your healthcare provider. Reasons for a cesarean delivery can include:
- Fetal distress
- Multiple pregnancy (e.g. twins)
- Problems with the placenta or umbilical cord
- Prior cesarean delivery
- Breech presentation (when the baby is positioned feet or buttocks first)
- Cephalopelvic disproportion (when the baby's head is too large to fit through the mother's pelvis)
Preparing for the cesarean delivery
If you know ahead of time that you will be having a cesarean delivery, your healthcare provider will likely give you instructions on how to prepare. This can include:
- Stopping eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before the procedure (typically 8-12 hours)
- Getting blood work and other tests done ahead of time
- Taking medications as prescribed (e.g. for pain management)
- Arranging for transportation to and from the hospital
- Packing a hospital bag with any necessary items (e.g. comfortable clothes, toiletries, etc.)
The cesarean delivery process
When it's time for the cesarean delivery, you will be taken to the operating room. Depending on the hospital and specific circumstances, your partner or support person may be able to come with you. Once you're in the operating room, you will typically be given anesthesia (either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia like an epidural or spinal block) to help manage the pain and discomfort of the procedure.
During the procedure, the healthcare provider will make a horizontal incision in your lower abdomen and uterus. They will then gently remove the baby from your uterus and deliver the placenta. If desired, the healthcare provider may allow you to see the baby or have skin-to-skin contact with them right away. After the baby is delivered, the healthcare provider will close the incisions with stitches or staples.
Recovery from a cesarean delivery
Recovery from a cesarean delivery can take longer than recovery from a vaginal delivery. You will likely need to stay in the hospital for a few days to monitor your recovery and ensure that you and your baby are doing well. Your healthcare provider may recommend pain management medication and will give you instructions on caring for your incision site and managing any discomfort.
It's important to plan for a slower recovery period after a cesarean delivery. You may need to limit physical activity for several weeks and may need extra help with household tasks and caring for your baby. Your healthcare provider will give you specific guidelines on what activities you should avoid and when you can return to normal activities.
Conclusion
While a cesarean delivery may not be what you initially envisioned for your birth experience, it can be a safe and necessary way to deliver your baby. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you can feel more prepared and confident heading into the delivery room.