Surviving a C Section

Author: Lee-Anne Robert

After 42 weeks of pregnancy, two days of undergoing inducement

and physical stress on the baby, my daughter was delivered via

an emergency C-section. Oh, it was music to my ears when my

gynecologist arrived in my hospital room at 4:30 a.m. and told

me they were going to do an emergency C-section. I must have

been in shock or delirious! However, after going through a

traumatic two days, I had had enough and I wanted to meet this

precious baby who lived inside of me for 9+ months.

The time came and I was wheeled to the operating room, and what

a blessed event it was to see my sweet new baby girl!

I wasn't prepared for the aftermath of a C-Section but I am so

grateful that I had a great family who were there for me and

helped me every step of the way.

1) Plan ahead. No one can predict whether or not you'll need an

emergency c-section. So prepare yourself with information.

2) Try not to be upset if you are told you have to undergo a

C-section to deliver your baby. I know that many new parents are

less than thrilled at the prospect and have expected to have a

normal vaginal delivery. Plenty of women feel put down and feel

less like a woman because they did not deliver their baby

through the hard work of labour. I know it is emotionally hard.

Truly, the main concern is you and your baby's health and that

is more important than how you delivered your baby.

3) Expect a brief hospital stay. My daughter and I were in the

hospital for four days after the birth. If you require

assistance at any time in caring for you or your baby, are

uncomfortable due to the pain, or have any questions, do not be

afraid to ask for help. There were times when I was too proud to

press the buzzer to ask for assistance. But, believe me, their

assistance is very much required, especially with the care of

your newborn baby.

4) When the time comes and the nurses and/or doctors tell you to

walk around, do try. It may be difficult but do try to do a

little walking if and when possible. It helps to alleviate the

stomach gases that are very much a part of the discomfort you

feel after a C-section.

5) The day arrives when you and your newborn can finally go

home. Enlist support! Ensure that you have family, friends or

loved ones to assist you and, once again, do not be afraid to

ask for help. Do not try to be supermom! I was fortunate to have

a supportive family at home and could not imagine going through

the recovery without them. It will take you 6 weeks to fully

recuperate from a C-section, afterall, it is major surgery.

6) Do not pick up heavy items. Remember, you have just had

surgery and your incision is in the healing process.

7) Ensure that you eat healthy and drink lots of water. This is

important to ensure that your digestive system returns to normal.

8) Get plenty of rest and take time for yourself. Vital for

recuperation is to get plenty of est. Enjoy this period of

relaxation because you have many years of motherhood to go!

9) Enjoy this special time with your new baby!

Oh, 18 months after the birth of my daughter, I gave birth to a

healthy baby boy via a scheduled C-section. The second C-section

was easier. I am grateful to have two healthy children who are

the joy of my life, irregardless of how I delivered them.

About the author:

A proud mother of two healthy young children and owner of

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Surviving a C Section

Article : Surviving a C Section