Cesarean sections (c-section) occurs in more than one out of every four births. Many students in my childbirth classes later tell me that they ignored the information that was given on cesareans because they assumed that "It wouldn't happen to me." This is not a wise move. Learning everything you can about cesareans may help prevent the unnecessary cesareans and make the necessary cesareans more comfortable, and less frightening.
This article is intended to given you a lot of information about cesareans, including the surgery, the pain relief during and after, recovery, and more.
Reasons for the Surgery
Reasons for cesarean surgery very greatly. Some are true emergencies, while others are decisions that have come during the course of a labor, and others are decision made during the pregnancy that this is the safest way for this particular baby to be born. Here are some sites that go into detail about the different reasons for cesareans. Remember that not all of these factors will be for everyone.
The Surgery
These sites will give you descriptions of the actual procedures that lead up to the surgery, during the surgery and during your post operative stay. Some are arranged in a different order in some hospitals, but the basics are the same. Familiarizing yourself with these might make them a bit more comfortable if you are experiencing them.
The Recovery
Recovering from surgery is rarely fun, particularly when you have a newborn to care for. While some of your care will be the same as a mother who had a vaginal delivery, you must also have special care following your surgery. The sites I have selected will discuss some of the differences and some of the similarities of this care.
The Emotions
Having a baby stirs up a lot of emotions. Adding surgery can sometimes stir up additional feelings, both positive and negative. Some of these are stories of cesarean birth, others poems. You will find a broad range of emotions.
Places for Discussion of Cesareans and Related Topics
Sometimes talking about your experience is a great thing to do. There are online forums and listservs designed to do just that. Some of these lists discuss practical solutions, philosophy and medical aspects. Other lists are more for medical information and research.
The best information I can give you is to discuss with your practitioner the reasons for cesareans, indications you might be a candidate for a cesarean, and what you can do to adequately prepare yourself for this journey.
