Caserean

Jennifer - posted on 05/21/2010

some moms are saying they didn't have their babies as fast with c section as with natural. Because my twins were preemies they went to NICU immediately but with my third child (2nd pregnancy), he was given to me immediately after they did all of the post birth tests on the baby. He was with me in recovery, wheeled with me into my room on the OB floor of the hospital and stayed with me. I imagine every hospital has a procedure but c section mommies that give birth to healthy babies typically have the same experience as babies born "naturally." C sections are very routine procedures and even your scar will fade after a few years. There is nothing wrong with having a c section and there is nothing wrong with mommies who need to have them.

Jennifer - posted on 05/21/2010

I have had two c's. One because of twins, one because with second pregnancy it was recommended. Do not be scared. They will numb you from your shoulders down and you won't feel a thing. You will be able to lay there and talk to your husband and hear your baby cry....think of it this way, in twenty minutes you have a baby! They may have you stay in bed for twenty four hours, but after you have a baby you want and need that rest - take advantage of it, take advantage of having the nurses to help you because when you go home its just you and daddy around the clock. Take a deep breath....all will be well.

Meaghan - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a planned C Section with my daughter. I was scared going into it because I didn't know what to expect. It honestly wasn't that bad. I had a spinal block that took awhile to get in. Once the medicine kicks in, they race you to a lying down position. Once they start, my daughter was born within 10 minutes. You can feel them touch you, but you can't feel anything like hot and cold. Everyone is there for you. I was kept in bed for 24 hours after surgery because I had preeclampsia (sp?). They will ask you if you have passed gas because they want to know if your systems are working. I had my staples in for about 4 days. It was trying with those in, but after the staples were out then it was fine and I felt like I could walk normally. I was tender for about a week or so. Just take things slow and get as much help as you can especially when you get home.

Susan - posted on 05/21/2010

I planned natural childbirth but ended up having c-sect for first. everything fine. No driving for a while.
Had V-BAC for second, natural no meds. Went very well.
That was 18 years ago. Both boys graduated HS and doing well. Best wishes

CHERYL - posted on 05/21/2010

Hi Jessica:
I had an emergency C-section July 1,1988 my late son was in the frank breech. They did a spinal block on me, I moved and they had to redo it, It hurt. I was 21 years old with my then first son.

They put the screen up so I could to see a thing,but I felt it when they cut me, and I said you are cutting my stomach. And when they stretched my stomach, I knew they was doing it, and told them and my husband what they was doing. Since mine was born too early at 27 weeks they showed him a little and rushed him away. They put staples in me. It hurt a lot getting them out. You go into a recovery room, after awhile they get you out of bed to walk. It does hurt when you walk. My mom made fun of me sayin I walked like an 90 year old woman. It does take you some time to walk again and not hurt from the pain. I was in the hospital for 5 day, but again that was 21 1/2 years ago, and I'm sure with the time it has changed?
I'm greatful I did not have to have any more
C-sections with my other 3 kids I would never have one if I never had to have them again.
Good luck with it. Maybe it will turn??? My nephew was in the breech position and when they opened my sister-in-law up they said OH look he turned, and he could of been born normally. Best wishes I hope yours turns like my nephew did

Valery - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a c section because my daughter was in breech position. I, too, was scared. You do have an epidural and you are awake so you can see your precious little baby right away. There are some things they do to prep before you go in. It is a very quick procedure. After they sew you up you go to recovery and they bring the baby to you for feeding. You won't be feeling anything. The best thing is to get off the strong meds before you leave the hospital. They will get you up when you are ready. I was up that night. Hold a pillow on your belly, that helps.

Jaime - posted on 05/21/2010

I havn't read all the replies so I hope I'm not repeating what anyone else has said. I am due to deliver my 6th child in 3 weeks. All of my babies have been breech up until I was in labor with them. They usually flipped back and forth the last few weeks, but all turned head down at the last minute. Walking around during labor helped with this. I'm not sure what your dr has told you, but it is possible for them to turn the last few weeks. This is my hope for you so you don't have to worry about a c-section! Best of luck!

Lucy - posted on 05/21/2010

The build up is the worst but it was absolutely fine. My daughter was breach so planned like yours. Everyone in the theatre was very kind and it was nice to chat a bit whilst it was going on. I felt nothing. You may be sick afterwards, I was both times, I think partially shock and partially the anesthetic. You don't have to stay in bed for 24hrs but you may want to. I know I did! When it's all over and you can start to move around again, make sure you stand up straight. I didn't with my first but did with my second and I healed a lot quicker and better second time round. Good luck, all will be fine, after 9 months of protecting your baby, this is the safest way (or so I thought) :)

Laurie - posted on 05/21/2010

Hii Jessica, I have had 2 casereans. They you a shot in your spine to numb you. You are up awake for the procedure, you can even have some one take pictures of the surgery if you want. You are up and walking the same day if your surgery is in the morning. Nothing to worry about.

Cassie - posted on 05/21/2010

Hello
I Had A Unplanned C- Sec , I Already Had An Epidural When I Went Down For Vontuse But Ended Up With C-sec , Your Not Kept In Bed For 24 Hours , I Had My Little Girl At 1.16pm Got Out Of Bed At 8pm And Got Told Off Then I Got Out Of Bed About 6 am when i got up .. they ask you to tell them if you can feel anything waist down by putting ice cubes on your lower belly and legs .they talk to you all the way through it .. my midwife spoke to my little girl and it was amazing feeling knowing that 2 mins later you would see your baby .. they show you the baby by holding it up then clean them then bring them back to you .. i wouldnt want to be asleep because you would miss an amazing experience tbh . it does hurt after , i was in hospital for 4 days and had infection with lasted two months .. walk about as much as you can but dont over do it .

good luck

Lyn - posted on 05/21/2010

My first baby was breech, but I didn't have a caserean, so I can't help you there, but my youngest daughter had her first baby last year (he's now six months) and she did have one, it wasn't planned it's just that baby ended up being too big! She had an epidural and was awake (although she tells me she could feel 'things' but had no pain) There was a green cover over her which also blocked any view she had of herself (but the lights over head did reflect back a little!) She had her 'clamps' out, two days later and went home the same day. This was in the USA...don't think it would have been that quick in England.

Alicia - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a cesarean with my first and I have one scheduled with my second too. With my first it was not a scheduled c-section so it may be different if it's actually scheduled. I was scared before I had mine too but it really wasn't scary. Yes you get an epidural and yes your awake. I was not kept in bed for 24 hours I had my son at 9 at night and they had me up the next morning to take a shower. It's baby steps and they walk with you until you feel stable on your feet. You really do take tiny little steps for awhile but eventually you can do more and more. The worst part for me was the not being able to drive for 10 days afterward you feel like you can't do much because you aren't allowed to do much. But after the 10 days if your doctor says it's ok you can start doing more things then it's just a gradual process until your back to doing everything just try not to push yourself too hard.

Brandy - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a caserean August 2008 because my son was breech as well. I was TERRIFIED of the surgery, sobbed through the entire thing. I got a spinal block instead of an epidural, which you'll probably get too since its scheduled. Spinal blocks are just like a shot in your back so thats nothing to worry about. The main difference is you are paralized basically from the neck down rather than mid-waiste but they are full proof where epidurals aren't always. Even though the thought of it terrified me beyond belief, I had a great delivery, was up within 12 hrs., and home in 2 days. The recovery is a little uncomfortable but the key is to stay active. Otherwise soreness and stiffness set in and you have harder time. I found sleeping on the sofa easier during the up every 2 hours stage at the beginning. It is a scary thing, but it is also much safer for both you and the baby! I hope this helps some and I hope everything goes great for you!!!

Inger - posted on 05/21/2010

Just remember that the most important thing is that you deliver safely, no matter how that is and that you and the baby are safe and well. I had 2 c sections as I had 2 premmies and the 2nd was breech also. The first was emergency and the 2nd was scheduled and it made a huge difference. Planning and preperation makes it a far less stressful situation!
In NZ we are up and around within a few hours so I can't answer the 2nd part of your question.
Best of luck and try and relax. You have a little person coming to meet you very soon!
Big hug x

Emma - posted on 05/21/2010

hiya,
my daughter was breech from 20 weeks so i had a planned c section. it wasnt that bad they give you a spinal block which to be honest was un comfortable but they also give you an anaesthetic first so it is'nt painfull you have to lean forward over a pillow, once its worked your awake for the whole thing but cant see anything we were walked through the whole procedure which was fab. make sure you have skin to skin as soon as your baby is born its the best thing in the world and get your partner/husband to do the same the bond between you will be awesome.you will have to say in bed for a day after as your numb from your boobs to your feet (quite weird)
after the baby's arrived a day or so later they should come arond and check the littleones hip joints we had a few probs at that point i wont say any more as not to scare you but you can contact me if you would like more info,
our daughter is now running round at 100 miles an hour and is 18 months old. hope this helps any more info just e-mail.x

LaDonna - posted on 05/21/2010

I'm a surgical technologist on a Labor & Delivery unit. This essentially means I have a degree that allows me to do all of the caserean sections at the hospital. All of the responses so far seem to be pretty accurate form the mom's perspective, but I'd be happy to answer any questions about the clinical side if you would like.

Gabrielle - posted on 05/21/2010

Hi Jessica! My baby girl was also breech, so we ended up having a C-Section. I completely agree with the logic of the women who have suggested that you look into ican-online.org or a midwife to have a natural breech birth, but for some of us, it simply isn't an option. There are no midwives in my area, and I discovered that I would likely have a c-section three days prior to her birth, so all other options were taken from me. I was dead set on a completely natural childbirth, so the idea of a c-section was terrible for me. That said, I quickly realized how blessed I was to be giving birth to a healthy baby, regardless of how she would be delivered.

My doctor did attempt to do an ECV, or a version, where they try to physically get the baby to turn by pressing on your uterus. She knew I wanted a natural labor, so she attempted the version so that it could happen, but unfortunately it did not work.

I dreaded the epidural, but it wasn't bad at all. I hardly felt it and hardly felt a thing afterwards. Delivery was a piece of cake.

I don't think you'll be kept in bed for 24 hours straight. They'll want you to walk around to get up as soon as possible to prevent blood clots. I was ready to be up and moving as soon as they said I could, so the next morning, I trotted down the hallway to see my friend who had delivered her baby on the same day as me. I still had the epidural medication for a day or so after having my daughter, and even though I dislike meds, I felt comfortable pressing a button for pain medication when needed. It was important to me that I could nurse and care for my baby, so pain management enabled that to happen.

Honestly, the worst part of having a c-section is the recovery AFTER you are released from the hospital. It is painful at times, even though you will be on pain medication. You'll want to accept as much help as people are willing to give. Let your husband, mother, sister, friend, etc. do anything to help you. I was often allowed to sleep and just be woken up to breast feed or cuddle with my baby. It was a sweet time.

Be forewarned that if you intend to breastfeed, there will be a few challenges that are unique to c-sections--your medicated body may not respond the way it should, you won't have your baby immediately after birth, and positioning can be a challenge. But that's a whole different question. If it's a concern you have, then feel free to ask me or get in touch with a good lactation specialist.

Jessica - posted on 05/21/2010

I have had two c-sections. My first was an emergency and I hadn't been given an epidural yet, so they put me under general anesthesia. My second time I was trying for a VBAC (vaginal birth after Caesarean) and the baby got stuck. I did have an epidural that time, so I was awake. I was scared the frist time, but it all worked out. Because yours is planned, you should be able to get an epidural, and your recovery should be fairly quick because you won't have to recover from labor. Since I didn't labor very long before my first c-section, my recovery was pretty quick and easy. I was out of bed and walking around the next day. Talk to your doctor about his/her recovery expectations for you - like how soon you should be up and walking, etc.

Laureen - posted on 05/21/2010

Do your research!!! Ive had 6 kids all breech, first two were sections, one the epidural didnt take and they kept operating anyways, that happens way more than anyone will tell you, anyways my next three were homebirths, and this last one was a footling posterior breech and came completely unassisted, so Do your research, take responsibility for your actions, stop thinking like your a victim. Research Research Research!!!!!

Shelly - posted on 05/21/2010

Hi Jessica, I have had 2 C-Sections the first one was an emergency which they put me out for cause the hospital I was at messed up the epidural now it was a teaching hospital and it was a student that did it but I ended up sleeping for almost 2 days and didn't get to spend any quality time with my daughter when she was first born so with my 2nd one I was terrified but talked to my OB in depth about it and she reassured me that it would be ok, so I was awake for my 2nd one and I got to hold my son as soon as he was born. The only "problem" I can say I had was a lot of nausea but the tech that was at bedside adjusted the medicine a couple times til it passed. I was released from the hospital exactly 24 hours after my son was born and can honeslty say I enjoyed my 2nd experience with birth. Yes you will be sore and as I've never had a vaginal birth I can't give you any idea how much different they are but if you have concerns my biggest suggestion would be to talk to your OB and address them with the Dr. Good luck!

Dana - posted on 05/21/2010

Again, I see people suggesting a EVC, these can be very dangerous and not something to be taken lightly either.

Megan - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a planned c-section with my son 2 years ago b/c of his size. Believe me, I am NOT a fan of hospitals, this was my FIRST surgery EVER (I'm 33), and I was surprised at how well I did!! It really helps if you have a good doctor & staff - they will help you the whole way. My doc was awesome - he was pretty young (and cute!) and there was DISCO playing over the speakers during the whole procedure!! He was a fun type who even cracked me up while I was on the operating table.
Don't worry about a thing. You'll do just fine. If I can do it, anyone can. Focus on the little miracle that's coming & that special moment when you see your baby for the first time!:)

Alicia - posted on 05/21/2010

I have four children three of which were delivered c-section. Having done both types of deliveries, I can tell you recovery is different, you hurt in different places. It was the safest way to get my babies here so I did it, but like you I was afraid before my first one. After that with my third and fourth children I would actually joke about having an eviction date instead of a due date. Being able to plan delivery does have it's advantages. Above all trust that your Doctor will take care of you and ask any questions you have now so you can calm some of your fears. If you don't understand something or something doesn't sit well with you, don't let it fester call your Doctor and talk it through it will help you feel better about it in the long run. As for the actual procedure, you are awake during the whole thing. They give you a spinal and yes you are in bed for a while after that. You will have numb legs for a while after surgeory and you won't feel like getting out of bed. How long you are in bed depends, it was different with each of my deliveries. They will show you your baby right after it's born and then take the baby to get it cleaned up and do the APGAR, usually in the same room or and adjoining nursery. Then if you have a supoort person with you they can usaully sit right next to your head and hold the baby so you can see your little one while they finnish sewing you up. I promise c-sections are not the end of the world and it sounds like it may be the safest way to get you little one her. Good Luck!

Becky - posted on 05/21/2010

Jessica, First, find a midwife who can try to turn your baby. It is safest to have this done in the hospital. It is much safer for everyone if you try this before having a c-section. I am sure that your doctor is good, but often c-sections are for their benefit more than the mom's.
I just had my third c-section. The first was after two weeks of labor, the second was because my appendix ruptured, and the last was because I had already had two. The doctor who did this last one was the best! He did not make me stay in bed. Right after the c-section I had to stay in recovery for a while but our son stayed with us.
If you do have a c-section remember to WALK a lot. I developed a blood clot after this last one because I was not active enough and my blood pressure kept on dropping. Just as hormonal birth control is a huge risk factor for blood clots, so is pregnancy. Add a surgery into the mix and you have to be very careful!!!
By the way, breast feeding really helps recovery after a c-section. I rested more because of sitting to nurse which was a good reminder to take it easy. After a c-section you need at least 6 weeks of no lifting, driving, vaccuuming, etc. REALLY! If you don't rest you will pay for it in the long run. If you feel like you are going nuts, take a walk or have a friend take you and baby to a movie. No shopping after a c-sec tion for at least 4 weeks!! Really.

Karen - posted on 05/21/2010

C-sections aren't all that bad. I've had three c-sections and recovered fairly quickly. The doctors gave me a choice of either the epidural or the spinal block, I choice the spinal block, it wears off quicker after surgery. The one thing the drs don't tell you is after you get home is when your having some pain in your belly is to put a warm towel or heating pad on your belly. It helps the nerves wake up faster and makes the healing go faster. What you really need to do if your scared is talk to your dr about your fears. Congrats on the new arrival.

Ella - posted on 05/21/2010

I agree with Cherie and think you should get as much information as possible. I would always wait and see if the baby turns or if there is a way to encourage him/her to turn. Furthermore, I'd try to find out if there is the option of doing it naturally without surgery. My mom was a breech baby and my grandmother delivered her vaginally. Unfortunately, vaginal breech births get rare and there are far less experts around than there used to be. I hope this is going to change.

I wish you best of luck.

Lorie - posted on 05/21/2010

i had a c-section with my daughter - placenta previa, although without all the really scary symptoms. as with any surgical procedure there are some risks, but they really are no greater than the risks of delivery and since your baby is breech the c-section risks may even be less. we were scheduled for the procedure at 2pm, had the epi & then our baby by 2:04pm. i did some yoga breathing for about 30 minutes before we went in for the epidural, and focused my attention forward & breathed through the shot. they use a topical numbing agent and so all you feel from the epidural is some pressure. there is some tugging & pulling when the baby comes out, but it's not painful. typically they put up a "curtain" so that you can't acutally see what's going on, and we had a nurse that was calling "play by play" for us. my hubby is pretty strong of stomach - so my doc let him move to the other side of the curtain, as long as he didn't touch anything, and he got to watch her come into the world. at the end of the delivery, they will likely give you a big morphine shot into the epidural line to help with any post-surgery pain you might have that night (and give you some much needed rest).

after surgery, you get to see the baby & may hold her if your arms are not too weak. then the nurses will take the baby to clean him/her up and do all that post-birth testing while you are taken back to your room. shortly afterwards, your bundle of joy will be brought in for the first feeding. since i had a c-section, my insurance carrier paid for 5 days (from date/time of actual delivery) in the hospital. if yours does too - take it! it was a great help to me to have the nurses & nursery on call for that first week, plus that gives you time in the hospital to figure out breastfeeding (if you choose) and how to properly swaddle, hold, etc... i don't think any hospital keeps you immobilized for 24hrs anymore - the sooner you are up & using the rest-room the better off you will be.

personally, i was very happy with the whole c-section experience. we knew 3 weeks prior to our due date that we had to schedule the c-section. we did it 2 weeks prior & because we litterally knew the day/time of delivery our entire family was able to be there - even our out of town grandparents :) i have talked to a lot of other moms that went through c-section and the consensus on the plus side is feeling back to normal again faster, & being less tired and more ready to see the baby after delivery (particularly if it is your first child). i don't personally know anyone that had any complications (mother or child) from a c-section.

don't be scared, think positive thoughts, do your lamaze or some meditation breathing throughout the process and you and your baby should fine. best of luck and my happiest congratulations to you!!

Tina - posted on 05/21/2010

Hi Jessica! I've had 3 c-sections, and I was scared everytime. But it's very easy and you will be numb from your chest down, you won't feel anything. And yes, you will be awake. They gave me spinals on all 3 of my kids births. They got me up to walk a little bit that same night I gave birth. Things might be a little different now tho, I had my last child 11 yrs ago. lol It does take alot of time to heal your incision, so you have to take it easy for the first 3 weeks I think. Nothing to worry about, I'm sure everything will turn out fine. THey kept me and the babies in the hospital for 3 days, then with my last child, I was used to it, so they let me go after 2 days. I think she explained it very well on the last comment!!! That's exactly what to expect. Best of luck to you and your baby!!! :)

Stephanie - posted on 05/21/2010

Since it's not an emergency, you'll most likely get an epidural (spinal block) that makes you pretty much numb from the waist down. You can feel pressure, but NO PAIN. You can't hold your baby but you can have someone hold the baby next to you. Your arms will be strapped down for the IV, but don't worry, you'll have a screen in front of you so you can't see anything.

Once the surgery is over, you will be taken to recovery where you will stay until you can feel your legs. After the feeling returns to your legs, you are taken to your room. In my hospital, I had to move myself to the other bed because they want to make sure you can move.

You see your baby, breastfeed (if you want to), and rest for a little while. But you're encouraged to be up and walking around by the evening to start the healing process. You have to go to the bathroom, too.

It's not so bad in the hospital after a C-section. But make sure to rest and not lift anything heavier than the baby for AT LEAST 6 wks once you get home.

Congratulations and good luck!

Elaine - posted on 05/21/2010

I have had 2 "c" sections. And personally I think it's better than child-birth the "usual" way. And, here's why....It is major surgery, and so has all the seriousness it deserves. And if all goes well, a bit of a longer recovery period.... but that's o.k. Pain is controlable, so that's not an issue. The issue is mobility.... It is very painful to move after a "C" section. That's normal...but you have to get up and move about within reason.
First, if your awake for the procedure (I was) it's absolutely wonderful seeing that child lifted from your body. Tears ran down my face, not from pain or fear or anything like that, I was just so overwhelmed to see him being born. He looked beautiful, and most new-borns you can't say that. I mean, all babies are beautiful, but some need assistance and have big red marks on the head and face if forceps were used on them (and they usually are), and they are so red because childbirth is very very hard on the baby, as hard as it is on the mother, believe it or not. So for me, and this is my experience alone, I thought it was great to just lay there on the gurney, entirely draped, and in no pain what so ever, giving birth and talking with my dr. while she delivered my son. To see him that very instant he took his first breath was just undescribable!! And I was fully alert!! Immediately afterwards, they put you in a twilight sleep, because you really are exhausted (your body has gone through a lot) and you drift of to a nice sleep.They clean you up and stitch you up while your out. When you awake, your in your own room, and the best thing you can do for yourself, is DO WHAT THE DR. AND NURSES' TELL YOU. Getting up and moving around is difficult, but you must do it. Even if only for a couple of steps. Bed rest for 24 hours after major surgery, is typical. And not that hard to do. You'll have opportunity to see your newborn, feed him/her, what ever, but you wll do it when your away and able to take care of him/her. My first born was an emergency "C" section, but it did not discourage me from having a second child, knowing that deliver too would be a C section also. So go full speed ahead, be happy and do not be afraid. Trust in your dr. Don't be afraid to ask your dr. questions. I'm sure they would answer anything you ask them. They too, want you to be cool, relaxed and confidant!! Happy Birthing!!

Angela - posted on 05/21/2010

I have not had a c-section, but my baby was turned around close to the time she was due. I had an excellent midwife and doula who recommended exercises that helped get her turned around. It doesn't always work, but more often than not it does. Couldn't hurt to try, and you still have the c-section scheduled in case. If you're interested, I'd ask for recommendations from anyone you know who has used a midwife and/or doula in your area or call the closest midwife birthing center for a recommendation. Best of luck -- I'm sure you'll do great no matter what. Your body knows how to do this!

Amber - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a caseran with 3rd baby. I was scared to because I have 3 rodes in my back and they did know if I could have a spinal shot so I could be awake but they did it and it was nice and I didn't fill anything and I got to see him right away instead of 24hr after. I know it so hard to stay cool but if you do it will be fine the hospt. do this so many times. God Bless you and congrates to you and your family.

Angel - posted on 05/21/2010

Hi Jessica:
Sarah's explanation of how it works is excellent. The spinal block feels a bit weird, but after that, you should feel no pain. If you do, there should be an anesthetist standing beside you who can remedy that immediately. The main stress of a C comes afterward during the healing process. YOu should never carry anything heavier than the baby for the first 3 weeks. When I had mine, 7 days bedrest was required, but that may have changed by now. It gives you the chance to snuggle up with your baby. Good luck! Angel www.flowerpowermom.com

Amanda - posted on 05/21/2010

Hi. I haven't had a Caserean, but my daughter was breech. I was lucky that the hospital I was going to (In Cardiff) had a specialist who could turn her round. He basically just grabbed my bump and shoved. I can't say it didn't hurt, but compaired to labour it wasn't that bad and I got to have a vaginal birth. The process is called something like external cephalic version (ECV). They do an ultrasound to check where the placenta is then can say if you could have one. They keep an O.R. ready just in case you need an emergency c-section.
I read that a vaginal birth is better for the baby's lungs so I chose the ECV and I would choose it again - worth asking your hospital about.

Stephanie - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a c-section last year and what I can tell you is that every woman is different and every recovery is different. I have friends that were up and going in 2 days and another that took more than a month. I personally, after my own experience, would recommend you get a second opinion. That you check to see if it is absolutely necessary to have aa c-section. Just because your baby is breached now does not mean that he/she will be in another 3 weeks. Recovery from a natural birth is much easier and you will be thankful later. (I hear this from my friends who stuck it out and did whatever it took to make sure it was a natural birth) I am not trying to scare you, but you should know that you may or may not be up and going quickly. It is worth looking into a second opinion. I think that a lot of doctors nowadays are too quick to prescribe a c-section...

Anndriska - posted on 05/21/2010

I also had an emergency c-section and a spinal block as the same with Sarah Moulton, my son didn't want to move, he wasn't breach but he was stubborn as ever. Anyway, the surgery was easy, I felt tugging and pulling and the doctors stitching me back up but no pain whatsoever. The pain comes about 2 days after the surgery, I stay four days in the hospital to make sure I was healing the way I should, in case of infection and with the spinal block, I got headaches but that happened because I wasn't lying flat on my back. You must lie flat on your back for maybe an hour or so everyday. I couldn't help myself I wanted to see and be with my son all the time even when he was sleeping. When I got home, I was a little sore from the ordeal but I am glad I had a c-section before something terrible happened to my son while I was in labour. I hope that helped but it is always good to research about it cause everyone go through different things. It is best to prepare yourself for anything, keep an open mind about surgery it is not always bad or good but appropriate for the timing.

Cherie - posted on 05/21/2010

Just because your baby is breech does not mean you have to have a ceserean. Babies can turn even the last day. There are ways to get your baby to turn. You can crawl up the stairs backwards. You can also talk to your baby and tell it to turn. My baby dropped really low 5 weeks early. I talk to it to come up in she did. There are alot of other stories of babies turning because they were breach. I would talk to a midwife before having a ceserean. It is major surgery with a lot of risk. You might want to look up the ICAN website. Please become as informed as you can before you agree to a ceserean.

Annemarie - posted on 05/21/2010

Ok,I have had 3 c-sections.16 years, 15 years, and 7 months ago. My last one was supposed to be scheduled, but because I started dialating and bleeding my daughter was born 6 wks early. But this is how it went:
I arrived @ the hospital and they decided to let her come that early. Once I was in the OR they did the epidural and then my fiance came in. As everyone else has stated, it is pretty easy and painless. My daughter was delivered @ 5:50 pm. I was in Recovery until I started getting feeling back in my legs, so about 2 hrs. I was then taken to my room. I suggest that you get up and move as soon as you are no longer feeling sick to your stomach. The sooner you get up and moving, the sooner you will feel better. I was walking down to the NICU by the next morning. In fact, I was in the NICU with help by 11 pm the night she was born. Depending on hospital policy, they may want you to wait to get up. Make sure you ask and find out.
By the time I went home 3 days later, I was walking almost normally and nobody could believe I had had a c-section less than 80 hrs earlier.
I did all this without any narcotics, so it can be done. Don't get me wrong, it is GOING to hurt, but the more you get up and move, the better!!!

Rachel - posted on 05/21/2010

i had a c-section for the same reason. nothing to be scared about. yes, you'll be awake. you'll go into the operating room, get up on the table & that's when they'll give you the epidural. while it's taking effect, the doctors & nurses will prepare everything else. it takes about 20min from when they make the first cut to when you'll hear your little bundle cry for the first time. it's a very easy procedure, the only crappy part is coming off the epidural. mine was morphine based & i was really itchy & uncomfortable about 12 hrs after surgery. as soon as the epidural wears off, they will make you get up out of bed & walk to the bathroom. you'll be sore but nurses should be on hand to give you pain pills. all in all, in my experience, it was an easy surgery. good luck! hope this helps :)

Meagan - posted on 05/21/2010

My first little bit of advice is to just do a quick search around your area for a dr. or midwife you delivers breech babies vaginally...unless you are completely ok with a scheduled cesarean. Even if you let yourself go into labor and then head in for the csec...then you will know for sure that your baby is ready and healthy enough to be born. I think it would be REALLY helpful if you found a doula who has experience with cesareans and can be with you during the surgery for support. My 1st was a cesarean and I really wish I had a woman by my side who knew what I was going through rather than just my husband who was more scared than I was. Just an idea for you from someone who has personal experience and who is also a doula now. :) Good luck and enjoy your baby!

Jeni - posted on 05/21/2010

First, I would talk to a doula about what you can do to help encourage the baby to turn. There are yoga positions and other external things you can do. You have 3 weeks and baby's can turn in a matter of minutes.

I ended up delivering both of mine kids via C-section. The first because she bent herself in half in the four days from my dr. appt. and labor. They discovered this when I was at an 8. The 2nd was an attempted VBAC, but he wouldn't get out of my ribs.

Both C-sections were fine. The recovery with my first was much longer and more difficult. As long as you are good about following discharge directions and taking pain meds before they are absolutely needed you will do great.

Good luck. I hope that baby turns for you.

Linda - posted on 05/21/2010

hi jessica
dont be scared i had a csection with my little one he is 20mths old and i was petrified but it went so quickly and i felt nothing except a little bit of pulling no pain.
i was in bed for about 18hrs and then up and walking around the next day and off painkillers the day after that.
dont stress all will be fine just rest now because once yor little munchkin is here you wont be able too.
good luck.
linda.

Becky - posted on 05/21/2010

Baby could turn in 3 wks but if not don't worry.....I had C-section and did fine at 40 yrs. old.

Amber - posted on 05/21/2010

Oh Boy!! Just realx & enjoy. Seriously don't be scared it is the easiest way to have a baby. You will be awake but you won't have ANY pain. My first baby I had a 55 hour labor THEN they took him in an emergency C-section. My second one I was twenty minutes late & it went great! Much more relaxed & enjoyable. The big thing with C-sections is the healing afterward. Just make sure you have frozen food ( I like homemade best) so you don't have to cook! Honest it will be fine good luck Amber

Leigh - posted on 05/21/2010

I had a ceasar with my little boy in oct 09. It was by far the best thing I have done. My daughter was natural and a complete disaster. I should've had her by ceasar too. It's a little daunting at first but it's far less painful I believe, afterwards is sore and uncomfortable but so long as you stay on top of the meds they give you you'll be ok. I have not looked back. If I was to have another baby I would have it by ceasar most definitely. I should also mention that I was awake for the whole thing and I loved it. I could hear everything that wa being said and I enjoyed hearing the doctor say he was about to bring the baby out. We didnt' know what we were having and he didnt say until he handed him over the sheet. I was crying the whole time SO happy. I was up and about the next morning and the afternoon I had him I was helped to shower etc but I felt great.

Robin - posted on 05/21/2010

Hi! First, congratulations....sounds like this may be your first baby!
Both of my boys were C Sections - they are now 22 and 19 yrs old. BOTH times I was put to sleep. The first time I had no choice because baby wouldnt come out. The second time was scheduled. I had an option to do an epidural or be put out. I chose to be put out. Now that was before internet...now you can do some research.
I have known ladies who had had epidurals and they had both pros and cons to say about it. They didnt like that they couldnt feel anything from the waist down for hours after baby was born. Then the pain comes later from the incision.
With me, I woke up, and was able to get out of bed that day. Yep,you are going to have pan a the incision, and it will take longer than natural child birth to get on your feet again because this is surgery. However, the hospitals dont let you stay in bed..and its actualy best to be up and around soon anyhow.
To me, I am glad I chose the option of being put to sleep over an epidural. If I were you, I would get online as well and do research on epidurals, and all the pros and cons of them.
Either way...its all going to work out....you will be fine - they do so many of these now! And in the end, you will have that beautiful little one to just oogle over!
Wishing you all the best!
Robin Brostovski

Allison - posted on 05/21/2010

Everyone's experience is different and a lot of what I am reading has to do with the policy at different hospitals. I've had two c-sections - one emergency and one planned. I was definitely more comfortable the second time, since I knew what was going on. I would just make sure to ask many questions and just know the process. My biggest advice was that the anti nausea medicine, Reglan is given. Both times it made me feel horrible. Advice was given to me by an anestheologist after the fact to ask that they give it to you SLOWLY. Even though I felt horrible, the spinal made that feeling go away. Having a spinal is kind of a weird feeling, but it's not horrible. It's just bizarre.. all totally worth it so you can be awake and experience the birth of your child - which is AMAZING. One of mine did not want to come out and there was a lot of pulling and tugging - kind of like having a tooth taken out. You're aware it's going on, but can't feel it. I think the biggest shock to me was that I was on a catheter for 24 hours, so no getting out of bed. I have to say, after having to pee every five minutes while pregnant, it was kind of great to not have to run to the bathroom, and just be able to lay there and enjoy my baby.:). Press a pillow on your stiches for comfort, and take as much pain meds as you are comfortable with. Also take something for gas buildup, even when you get home. My only complication were horrible gas pains three weeks after I got home, just because I thought I was fine and stopped taking the meds. Just take it, not worth the pain of trapped gas, which can be pretty bad.

My first baby was breech, and I successfully flipped her with music and cold packs three times. She flipped right back upside down when I stood up. During one conversation with a midwife about this happening, she said, " At this point, you worry about the cord wrapping around her neck..so maybe give it a rest." I was furious that she had even suggested it and scheduled a c-section after that phone call. I vowed that my baby can lay wherever she wanted, and I would not be trying to flip anyone ever again. Just a thought.

All in all, I found the whole process to be much easier than I ever anticipated. Just move slowly and give yourself time to heal.Good luck!

Kelly - posted on 05/21/2010

Other posts have covered the surgical procedure pretty thoroughly, so I'll leave my experience out, but the comments about having a vaginal breech delivery don't mention that children delivered this way are more likely to have developmental delays at age 2 (and to die during delivery) than those delivered by c-section. C-section is recommended as something that is best for mother and baby. Even if it's not what you anticipated (and so many things about parenthood aren't!!), it is about what is best for your beautiful baby, not about heroics.
All the best :)

Alicia - posted on 05/21/2010

My little guy is now 9 months old and I had a csection with him. He was breech so they scheduled the surgery one week before my due date. The little guy was just plain and simply stuck in there. It is amazing how much you forget over time.

The epidural is uncomfortable but the nurses were great and made sure I was as comfortable as possible and breathing through it, etc. I had these weird shocks shoot down my leg which I was warned about - that was the worst part and that doesn't happen to everyone. You quickly become numb and lay down (they cathed me then). There was some tugging but the first 1/2 is so exciting I didn't mind. Once he was out they took him to a counter to clean him and check him, etc so we were waiting to see him and then my hubby got to hold hiim and showed him to me... i got to kiss him but it was really hard to see him (obviously... since I was laying flat). Baby and hubby left to go get a better cleaning and totally checked out and the surgery continued. I felt nauseous so they gave me meds right away... I Just focused on breathing and staying calm.
I felt horrible after surgery. It took a few hours to feel totally calm and regain full feeling in my legs. Yes they keep you in bed for about 24 hours. If you have further questions I'd be happy to share more!

As far as pain... very uncomfortable for a few days but keep moving and each day is better... after 2 weeks things are pretty normal feeling (minus a little tenderness in the incision site)

Ashlie - posted on 05/21/2010

Hey Jessica. My experience with the c secs hasn't been good. I have had 2 and the last one almost killed me. I don't like them and I wish I hadn't ever had any. If you have any opportunity to go normal please do. Not all c's go well. You have lots of people sayin its fine you bounce right back. Within 7 days of my last c I was back In the hospital with a 104.8 fever bc of infection. I couldn't see my baby for 7 days. Come to find out that they had cut my bowels during the surgury and in turn it gave me ecoli and staph in my uterus. I was on high risk for death. I havdnt realized the temp bc I was on vicodin which has tylenol on it so it lowered my temp. What they did to me in the hospital while I was there was the worse pain I have ever felt though. Plus not bein able to hold my new little angel was awful... All in all I would rather risk tryin to have my baby vaginally next time rather than go by csec. I am sorry if I scared you but I am just being honest. I hope and pray yours will be awesome. Just to let you know this is not a normal occurance. Most end up great. I am just an exception to the rule I guess.