C-Section Advice

elsa1688

Experienced mamas - let's hear it! Tips and tricks to help out FTMs??

stephpaez

Well, what questions do you want answered?

dragonfly711

I am having one on June 18.  I have not had one but a friend told me to get Depends that they are so much better than the pads after surgery.  She said that is a must!!!  So up I got some today!!! lol

Taymiller

Thank you for this post and thank you for anyone who offers advice! I am nervous.

dragonfly711

Oh trust me I am too, I did not want one, I have come to except that I am but I am nervous too.  I have never had surgery broken bones, or anything ( except DnC  )  So I am nervous

When are you having yours

flerlgirl

Don't think about it too much or you will freak yourself out. Last time dh told me jokes and then the nurses joined in, and that was helpful for me. It will be over before you know it and you can't see anything gross

otter1103

I'm stalking this for any recovery tips too. Had an unplanned one today and boy, I can already tell it's going to be a rough recovery.

Taymiller

Mine is June 19. I have had major surgery before, three shoulder surgeries. I am just glad I am not being knocked out for this one, that was always the scariest for me. I have had some pretty awful recoveries so I think I am mildly prepared. I just know this is the safest way for the baby to be born so I am fine with it.

Taymiller

@otter1103‌ - congrats!!

elsa1688

I am scheduled for June 5th. I spent the last 9 months preparing for a different kind of birth so I'm a little panicked. I'm very grateful for this option and the safest delivery possible, I'm just not sure what to expect. I'm familiar with the basic procedure, just looking for some insight from BTDT moms.

flerlgirl

@otter1103‌, my best advice is not to overdo it but do try to move around as early as you can. It will suck but it will help in the long run. Also to get out of bed, roll on your side, tuck your chin to your chest, and use your arm to push yourself up. And don't hold your breath! Motrin was really helpful to me. And smooch your baby...it will help. This is science.

dragonfly711

Taymiller said:

Mine is June 19. I have had major surgery before, three shoulder surgeries. I am just glad I am not being knocked out for this one, that was always the scariest for me. I have had some pretty awful recoveries so I think I am mildly prepared. I just know this is the safest way for the baby to be born so I am fine with it.

June 19 is my due date but my Dr has surgery on June 18!!!

JmeJoLee83

I am having mine next Tuesday May 27th! This June bug turned into a May baby..I am nervous also and posted on the c section board. I am worried about no skin to skin contact after the surgery, the catheter and Iv (yes, I'm a baby), and the recovery of major surgery. I am trying to relax and wrap my head around the fact this is happening in 4 days! I'm so excited to meet my little man though..good luck to all! Any advice is appreciated by experienced c section mamas.

flerlgirl

Tdonatoni said:

I've got a planned one of the 4th for a breech LO. I read on some Pinterest find that you should wax before instead of having the hospital shave. Any truth to that?

I've got a whole list of questions for my OB for Tuesday, I will share any helpful advice then.

Being shaved was nbd to me, honestly. If you want to wax beforehand I'm sure that's fine, too, but it really wasn't too exciting with the shaving.

CJnKR2014

It totally depends if baby A decides to flip but since he is breech at 36 weeks and they are seriously running out of room, i am having to prepare myself for the high possibility of a csection. And I am absolutely terrified.

Katieluc106

Thanks for this thread... I'm not scheduled or even supposed to have a csection... But one never knows and I'm glad you ladies are keeping me in know!

Ashes92813

This!!!! I couldn't have said it better.

astalyons said:

1. If you are having a planned csection start some colace a few days before. That first poop after is horrible and my OB doesn't let you go home until you have one.
2. Also, don't be a martyr. Take the pain meds! I tried to be tough and then my pain got so bad it was hard to control.
3. Get up and walk as soon as they let you. Even if it's short walks to the bathroom.
4. Ask for /accept help. Don't try to do it all once you come home. You just had major abdominal surgery.
5. If you are wanting to breastfeed, demand the baby as soon as you are in recovery. I breastfed DS within the first 5 minutes out of the OR.

chickpea912

I will say that even just from reading this thread, everyone's experience is different. Try not to overthink it! You may not have terrible pain, or you might find yourself asking for extra pain killers. There is a wide range of experiences out there.

I had a unique experience and couldn't hold S for 26 hours, but if you can, definitely advocate for skin to skin as soon as you can. If you don't need Percocet, don't take it - it can constipated you, and as others said, some stuff is a little difficult after the section. I was totally fine with just the Motrin, but if you need more, don't hesitate to do it.

Get up and walk. I was confined to bed for 24 hours and once I got sent over to the mother baby wing, I took two trips up to the NICU to see and nurse. Everyone seemed surprised I was up for that, but I do think it helped with my recovery.

purtz

I would recommend reading up a little bit about what to expect. I went through 32 hours of labor with DD and then ended up with a c section. My husband and I were not prepared! Actually recovery was fine; so hard to get around for the first few days! I have a RCS scheduled next week and we are going to have tons of help on hand when we get home seeing how there will be two kiddos. Good luck everyone!!

sumochik

Tdonatoni said:

I've got a planned one of the 4th for a breech LO. I read on some Pinterest find that you should wax before instead of having the hospital shave. Any truth to that?

I've got a whole list of questions for my OB for Tuesday, I will share any helpful advice then.

I feel like no matter what you do the nurse is still going to shave you. The second time I was prepared and used nair and the nurse was like, it's not gonna hurt and shaved anyway. It's the least of your worries that day.
Two things that kinda were gross to me was waking up in recovery with nurses changing my pads and later on a nurse giving me a suppository. Those were a little less dignified to me

sumochik

Question for you ladies: which pain meds don't go to baby when BFing? I had shots of something I can't remember with my first two c's the first day but they said it was a narcotic so they could only give it for 24 hours after surgery. I turned down Percocet BC I was pretty sure it went into the milk. So I went med free both times after one day and it really sucked. With all the complications from my last c, I am def looking for the pain meds beforehand!

ddd2

I have mentioned it before but I'm not sure on which thread..

Know the signs of a UTI and speak up if you have any symptoms before leaving the hospital.. I had never had one and was focusing so much on my belly healing that the pain was excruciating by the time I was home.. On a weekend! Big mistake. I won't be scared to speak up pre catheter this time and make sure all hands and areas are spic n span.

Also the lap pillow should go everywhere with you at first.. Especially in the car! Even laughing hurts and it helps.

chloephoebecali

@elsa1688 -I just saw that your version didn't work. I'm sorry. What was it like? I'm probably going to have one a week from Tuesday and don't know anyone that has tried one. I'm hoping for the best, but seems like there are very mixed results. My ob said 60-70% in their practice. Tia!

Taymiller

saltypearl said:

I just got ibuprofen and T3's alternating for pain.  I love me some ibuprofen!

I am so excited for ibuprofen, Tylenol is the worst.

elsa1688

chloephoebecali said:

@elsa1688 -I just saw that your version didn't work. I'm sorry. What was it like? I'm probably going to have one a week from Tuesday and don't know anyone that has tried one. I'm hoping for the best, but seems like there are very mixed results. My ob said 60-70% in their practice. Tia!

I'm really happy we tried. They monitored baby for about thorty minutes to establish a baseline. They put an IV in place just in case and I got a shot of turbuline. The doctor did a quick ultrasound to confirm he was still breech and then oiled up my abdomen. It felt like a very deep tissue massage. It was uncomfortable but not unbearable. They tried twice each direction and checked his heart rate in between. It was quickly apparent he just wasn't going to move. I would definitely attempt again in the same scenario.

MrsCase1

I third the need for stool softeners as many days in advance as possible. I had a SEVERE tear from the pain meds causing constipation. I basically preach about stool softeners to anyone who will listen.

LexieMarie0001

FTM and had a c-section on May 12th. I was shaking on the way to the OR because I was so scared but it wasn't bad at all! I never felt the spinal and the shots you get to numb your back first are just tiny stings. Try to remember to tell your SO that everything is ok and you aren't feeling anything because they are a nervous wreak to. My poor husband said he has never been so scared in his life. When everything was said and done I was happy about having a c-section. After my son was born and I was being stitched up my husband and I were talking and joking. 

Things I didn't know about recovery and tips

* I was full on sweating in the recovery room and once I was able to have   liquids all I wanted were popsicles. I had six popsicles within 10 minutes and           it helped me cool down a lot.

* I was really weak after delivery so my husband had to help me hold my son.

* When getting up to walk I was dizzy but it helped to stand up straight. Yes it   will hurt but you will feel better once you start moving.

* Take the pain meds as soon as you start feeling even the littlest sign of pain. 

* Be careful about taking  percocet because it caused me to nod off while              breastfeeding so I made sure to have someone with me when breastfeeding              so I didn't fall asleep with my son in my arms.

* Three days after the surgery I swelled up horribly from the hips down. I was        huge and uncomfortable for days but it did go away. 

* Take home the mesh hospital underwear because you don't want anything on    the incision. My nurses gave me extra to take home with me.

* Buy maxi dresses to wear home and for the next few days. The dresses will   be super comfy and cover up the swelling in your legs. They also help make   you feel pretty when you have everyone at your house to see the baby.

   

kittenslove

I have a question: in general, what do they look for during recovery before discharging you? I have heard horror stories of mommy being sent home too soon, and others that just wanted to get out. I would honestly prefer to stay with medical staff if I am uncomfortable, but only if I need to. I want to advocate for myself if I need more time, but want to know what I should be explaining to the staff for them to make the best decision regarding my discharge. 

I am not against being discharged quickly, I just want to make sure they are doing it because I am ready, not because they want the bed.

sumochik

astalyons said:

sumochik said:

Question for you ladies: which pain meds don't go to baby when BFing? I had shots of something I can't remember with my first two c's the first day but they said it was a narcotic so they could only give it for 24 hours after surgery. I turned down Percocet BC I was pretty sure it went into the milk. So I went med free both times after one day and it really sucked. With all the complications from my last c, I am def looking for the pain meds beforehand!

Here some good info:
https://kellymom.com/bf/can-i-breastfeed/meds/pain-meds/

Thanks a million!

dragonfly711

My Dr told me I would go in on Wed and will go home on Sarurday. I'm ok staying for as long as they want me too. Would rather be safe than sorry and have to come back. Lol

gmc222

I am having a RCS on 6/16. My experience with DD was fine, and I agree with other's comments. It's amazing how instantly numb your bottom half is after the spinal, and how quickly the sensation comes back when they are done. I also had the catheter put in after my spinal so I couldn't feel it. I did get super nauseous after the spinal, but they were able to give me some IV drugs to help. Also, I was very itchy around my head and face during and after surgery which they said was normal from the pain meds. Take your Colace! They brought me mine every few hours and I pooped the next day with no issues at all. I also had a bran muffin and fruit for breakfast each day which probably helped. I had surgery at 8am and was up and walking that afternoon. I felt so good that some days I would overdo it and regretted it by the evening when I needed to take pain mess. Listen to your body - even if you want to keep walking remember you just had surgery! Having a Boppy for BF was super helpful to keep pressure off my incision. I loved the mesh panties and brought some home. I was also fine with the pads they gave me in the hospital. I will say that the first time I got out of bed after surgery I was not prepared for the crime scene I had been laying on. Be prepared for a LOT of blood! It really was not a bad experience, and you have a sweet little baby as a reward. ETA mobile bumping- sorry for the lack of formatting!

Ahug77

LexieMarie0001 said:

FTM and had a c-section on May 12th. I was shaking on the way to the OR because I was so scared but it wasn't bad at all! I never felt the spinal and the shots you get to numb your back first are just tiny stings. Try to remember to tell your SO that everything is ok and you aren't feeling anything because they are a nervous wreak to. My poor husband said he has never been so scared in his life. When everything was said and done I was happy about having a c-section. After my son was born and I was being stitched up my husband and I were talking and joking. 

Things I didn't know about recovery and tips

* I was full on sweating in the recovery room and once I was able to have   liquids all I wanted were popsicles. I had six popsicles within 10 minutes and           it helped me cool down a lot.

* I was really weak after delivery so my husband had to help me hold my son.

* When getting up to walk I was dizzy but it helped to stand up straight. Yes it   will hurt but you will feel better once you start moving.

* Take the pain meds as soon as you start feeling even the littlest sign of pain. 

* Be careful about taking  percocet because it caused me to nod off while              breastfeeding so I made sure to have someone with me when breastfeeding              so I didn't fall asleep with my son in my arms.

* Three days after the surgery I swelled up horribly from the hips down. I was        huge and uncomfortable for days but it did go away. 

* Take home the mesh hospital underwear because you don't want anything on    the incision. My nurses gave me extra to take home with me.

* Buy maxi dresses to wear home and for the next few days. The dresses will   be super comfy and cover up the swelling in your legs. They also help make   you feel pretty when you have everyone at your house to see the baby.

   

This.
I am terrified of needles- have a phobia, but the c-section really wasn't that bad. The spinal was relatively painless and the surgery was interesting- no pain.
I had mine on May 13th and was in and out in less than 2 hours. I was eating solid foods and walking less than 6 hours later.

@kittenslove, I was told I was medically able to leave- having passed gas, eaten solid foods, etc- next day but wasn't allowed to be discharged until two days after surgery. I chose to stay to three days because I was still sleeping a lot and didn't want to risk anything.

You recover at your own pace. Just let your doctor know how you feel.

chloephoebecali

elsa1688 said:

@elsa1688 -I just saw that your version didn't work. I'm sorry. What was it like? I'm probably going to have one a week from Tuesday and don't know anyone that has tried one. I'm hoping for the best, but seems like there are very mixed results. My ob said 60-70% in their practice. Tia!

I'm really happy we tried. They monitored baby for about thorty minutes to establish a baseline. They put an IV in place just in case and I got a shot of turbuline. The doctor did a quick ultrasound to confirm he was still breech and then oiled up my abdomen. It felt like a very deep tissue massage. It was uncomfortable but not unbearable. They tried twice each direction and checked his heart rate in between. It was quickly apparent he just wasn't going to move. I would definitely attempt again in the same scenario.

Thank you so much for the response and all the details.  Also, thanks for starting this post.  

Mom&nurse

I had mine may 11 th. how long does it hurt? I feel like I should be better but my incision burns and is numb at times and really pulls down

chickpea912

astalyons said:

Tdonatoni said:

How long would you recommend having help for day to day tasks? DH has to go back to work after two weeks. Will I need someone else to help from two weeks on?

Everyone's recovery is different. DH went back to work after a week at home and I did just fine on my own. It all depends on how you are feeling.

Totally this. DH will be going back to work this week (after two weeks off), but I could have been okay earlier. You never know, but it's a reasonable amount of time to aim for (the two weeks).

misscarter87

Get up and walk as soon as you are able to do so &just try to move around little by little eachday..take the painkillers they will help out greatly..pads u will definitely need those..and be sure if you need any help at all aftercare at home accept it and ask for it while it available because once you are home that's totally diff than the help you will get at the hospital! Ive had 2 c sections they were both totally diff this last one was very diff from my first..the recovery was much rougher..especially with me caring for my Lo who was 4weeks early..&my BP was extremely high!

misscarter87

MrsCase1

StrawberryDreams219 said:

Babywear said:

@MrsCase1 said:

I third the need for stool softeners as many days in advance as possible. I had a SEVERE tear from the pain meds causing constipation. I basically preach about stool softeners to anyone who will listen.

Is your advice the same for a non-C? I only ask because it's been suggested to me to smuggle some into hospital and have them and I'm not sure if I should.

edit, I added planned, then reconsidered. I just woke up and I'm not sure how to tactfully word my question, sorry. I'm reading this because these things don't always go to plan and I need all of the information I can get.

I'm not @mrscase1 but I'll chime in. I also strongly suggest a stool softener of some kind. I had serious issues with constipation and tearing, it was worse than giving birth... I actually have a slight rectal prolapse from pp pooping.  I don't think my situation was common but still no reason not to help things slide out easier. 

I don't know what hospital policies are in Australia but here you aren't allowed to take your own medication. If you ask a nurse I bet they will give you a stool softener, it's a pretty common pp medication.

Preaching about stool softeners hahahaha but seriously just do it.

@babywear the hospital did automatically give me stool softeners but they didn't work at all and were the equivalent of any OTC. If you ask your Ob at your next appointment they should ave some good advice. Mine referred me to my colon-rectal specialist after my birth so she approves of the stool softeners I have.

Unfortunately, from what both my doctors have told me, tears, fissures, prolapses and the like are not uncommon following vaginal and c/s deliveries. People just figure it is your lady bits that will take the hit but your butt takes a hit, too.

misscarter87

otter1103

Alright J14 ladies. Of those of you who have had a c-section, did any of you experience some swelling of hands and feet afterwards?
I'm 5 days out and my feet look like little bubble cartoon feet and my hands are so swollen they hurt to bend. I read some swelling can be expected. Just wondering to what extent and for how long?

babybutterball

I am so happy I have found this. I had an emergancy csection after almost being in labor for 24 hours on the 31st.