Welcome to Caesarian Tips

Numbness

It is completely normal for there to be numbness around the incision area, and even a couple inches above, below and to the sides of it. Some mothers never regain sensation in that area, while some only regain minimal sensation. It may take up to six months for sensation to return in those areas. You might also experience itching in the numb area, and find that upon scratching it, you really don´t get any relief from the itching, and scratching it seems to make it tingle, and even hurt a little.

Car Rides

The car ride home can be quite a painful experience. Each bump will hurt, so tell your driver to take it easy and slow.

Existing Circumstances

Sometimes, depending on the circumstances surrounding the Caesarean the first time, a repeat Caesarean may be the best choice for the mother, if the same circumstances still exist during her second pregnancy.

Driving

Do not drive until you have finished your pain medications. Taking medications can make you drowsy. Your doctor may give you instructions to not drive for at least two weeks or longer, even after you have finished your pain medications.

Side Affects

Some common side affects of the epidural are shaking, drop in blood pressure, numbness, nausea and headaches.

Drinks & Food To Avoid

After your Caesarean, you will experience some pretty painful gas. Avoiding greasy and spicy foods as well as carbonated, and hot and cold drinks will help to alleviate some of the gas.

Use Pillows

Because you will be so sore from the caesarean it will be difficult to sneeze, laugh or cough for quite some time. Try taking a pillow and gently pressing it against your abdomen if you have to do any of the above.

When Can I?

For the first 4-6 weeks your doctor will probably advise you to not do any heavy lifting or pushing. This means no vacumming, heavy laundry baskets, moving furniture. If you can afford it, a house keeper is a good idea for those first few weeks of recovery!

Oxygen

Before a Caesarean operation starts, a nurse will insert oxygen tubes into your nose. This oxygen is not only helpful to you through the surgery, it is crucial to your unborn baby.

Stay Calm

If, suddenly, your doctor decides an emergency caesarean is best, stay calm. While it is frightening, remember that the doctor´s know what they are doing, and they are doing what is best for your baby and for you.

Blood Loss

Blood loss during a caesarean section is twice as much as the blood lost during a vaginal birth. However, it is important to note that a blood transfusion during a caesarean is very rare.

What Is It?

While it isn´t talked about much, Caesarean Depression DOES exist. Some women feel as though they have failed, and feel extremely "let down" by the process of having a Caesarean instead of a vaginal birth. Some women actually experience nightmares or anxiety attacks. This type of depression can last for weeks or years. It is important, if experiencing any symptoms of depression after your Caesarean to consult with your doctor.

Breathing

It might sound simple enough, but once you take that first deep breath, you´ll think twice about doing it again. It is important though to take deep breaths as often as you can and as soon as you can to help with the recovery.

Adequate Help

It is important that you have adequate help available to you after your C-section. Having extra hands will give you time to rest and recover as well as ease your mind.

Finding A Doctor

Unfortunately, some doctors are closed minded when it comes to VBACs. Some don´t believe that a VBAC is a safe choice for any mother, and will often refuse to participate in one. Find a doctor who is willing to help you achieve what you want..a successful VBAC!

Cephalopelvic Disproporation

If you have been diagnosed with Cephalopelvic Disproporation; it does not necessarily mean that you will have to rule out a VBAC. Many different factors can help you achieve a successful VBAC including smaller weight, head and position.

How Long Does It Last?

Post partum bleeding can actually last up to 3 months, and not the initial 6 weeks that everyone usually thinks

Don´t Look Down

Don´t look down when you are walking, look straight ahead. Also, do not lean down, try to stand straight as much as possible

Breaking The Bag Of Waters

If your water has not broken before your C-section, the doctor will break the bag of waters before removing the baby.