Ways to Prepare for a C-Section: A Guide for Women Before Cesarean Delivery
In order to have a safe and successful childbirth, planning and preparations must be done by the patient, with the support of her loved ones. This is most important during Cesarean delivery, as this form of childbirth is done through surgical procedure and requires a greater length of time for the patient to recover. Lab works and a talk with the anesthesiologist are done to make sure that no complications will arise during or after the procedure.
For vaginal delivery, the patient usually stays in the hospital for one to two days after delivery, for some medical tests and to allow recovery of the mother. But in cesarean delivery, the patient takes a minimum of three days before she completely recovers, thus prolonging hospitalization. Planning for the things to bring during one’s stay in the hospital must also be made so that the patient will be comfortable and stress-free after the exhaustion that a C-section entails.
Here are some useful tips and ways to prepare for a C-section to help you avoid stress and worry during childbirth.
Packing Things to Bring
Since you will be staying in the hospital for three to five days or more depending on your doctor’s advice, you have to make sure that you have all the things that you will need. Make a list of things to bring so that you will not miss out on anything. Pack clothes that are loose and easy to wear, and pants with adjustable waistbands so that you will not find it uncomfortable wearing them. If you plan to breastfeed, bring blouses or dresses with buttoned or zipped fronts. Do not forget to bring clothing pieces to keep you warm such as cardigans, sweaters, thick warm socks and zipped sweaters in case the hospital room is quite chilly.
Have in your toiletry kit essential items such as skin lotion, lip balm, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and other things to freshen you up after an exhausting childbirth experience.
Preparing for the Surgery
Be sure to discuss with your doctor what you can expect from the surgery. Do not hesitate to ask questions or raise your concerns about going through Cesarean delivery. You may be advised to discuss with the anesthesiologist the options for anesthesia to use in the procedure. A blood test and urine test will also be required prior your c-section. This is important so that the doctor will be updated on your hemoglobin blood count and your blood type, in case a blood transfusion is necessary after a c-section. Aside from these tests, your doctor will also remind you to refrain from eating and drinking eight to twelve hours before the procedure.
Delivering a baby is an exciting yet complicated period in a woman’s life. Much preparation is needed, particularly if the means of childbirth requires a major surgical procedure, as in a C-section. Blood tests, urine tests, and knowing the options for anesthesia are among the things that a woman goes through prior a c-section. It also helps to be physically prepared by getting enough rest, calming the mind and thinking positive thoughts, and refraining from eating and drinking eight to twelve hours before the procedure. Support from loved ones also contribute a huge part on the quick recovery and overall well-being of the patient going through a C-section.
Resources
C-Section: How You Prepare, https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/c-section/MY00214/DSECTION=how-you-prepare
A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Your Cesarean, https://www.babyzone.com/pregnancy/labor_birth/csection/article/cesarean-section-preparation-guide
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/suzanne88
