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What will I feel during a cesarean section?

By Robin Elise Weiss, LCCE, About.com

Question: What will I feel during a cesarean section?

Answer: During any type of cesarean section (c-section) where you have epidural anesthesia, you will feel some sensations during the birth. You should never feel pain. Though it may come as a surprise to many mothers that during the actual birth most women report feeling tugging, pulling and even a shortness of breath. Be sure to let your anesthesiologist and doctor know what you are feeling so that they can advise you whether or not it is normal to have the sensations you are having during your cesarean section.

These feelings occur during scheduled and unplanned c-sections. If you have an emergency cesarean, you will have these sensations unless you have general anesthesia. Even mothers with a spinal can feel these sensations.

You may be advised to do relaxation or breathing during this short, but intense portion of your surgical birth.

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