Repeat C-Section anxiety...I can't be the only one.

Baby Bouchard

Sigh, tonight I'm having a tough time. We have a repeat c-section scheduled for Tuesday afternoon and I'm finding my emotions are ALL over the place. Going from being extremely excited that in 2 more days we will hold our son, to crying because I'm terrified of the entire process and anxious about the recovery. With our daughter I was induced and it failed and 30+ hours later she was delivered via c-section, I don't remember much about that procedure other than feeling very weak and feeling as if I'd pass out during much of it, also the shaking after in the recovery room. I'm hoping since this c-section is planned and I'll go in rested that it won't be as bad but still my nerves are on edge. 

monica92603

Anxiety is normal I'm sure for most of us, especially if we have a little one at home already.  At least it was for me.
The general consensus seems to be that repeat c/s recoveries are much easier.  I had great recoveries for #2 and #3.  I was up walking around as soon as they would let me.  It wasn't too bad chasing around my almost 2 year old with help of course.  I'm 3.5 weeks pp and I have to say I feel great. 
You had a rough time if you were in labor for 30 hours then had the c/s.  I'm sure you'll feel much different this time around.  Get up and walk as soon as they let you and don't be a martyr about taking pain meds.  Be sure to stay on top of them.  I would let too much time go by before I would ask and then I'd be playing catch up.
Good luck!

pumpkinhead4

You are not alone. I have mine in less than 2 weeks and I am a bit anxious too. I did not feel well during or after the procedure and that's what I am dreading most. I can handle the recovery but it's the crappy feelings during and the few hours after that I am not looking forward too. Plus I was hoping for a VBAC but it's probably not happening which is fine because either way, something down there will be in pain, haha. Anyway, for what it is worth everyone I talk to who have had a RCS says it's great and so much easier than the first. FX we have the same opinion! Good luck!

mandapie

I'm nervous some days... and then some days not. I was induced with my first and knew that it would be a possibility, but my recovery wasn't the easiest and thinking of doing that over again with a toddler and no family around this time to help scares the crap out of me.

That being said, my mom (who is a nurse in an OR) keeps assuring me that RCS tend to be an easier recovery on average. I mean when you think about it it makes sense, you don't labor so you're body doesn't go through all that only to go through a major surgery. The shaking though I believe is nerves as well as a side effect of the meds if I remember correctly, I too am a little fuzzy on the details from my first c/s. I will however be taking some Tylenol PM the night before if I'm a bundle of nerves so that I sleep a little better.

inateapot

I have MAJOR anxiety about the c-sect - and I still have almost 2 months to worry about it. So no, you're not alone.

I'm sure everything will be ok, so try to relax!

jaimie68005

My 1st was an emergency c/s after 17+ hours of labor and no progression. With my 2nd which was a planned c/s, the recovery was MUCH easier. I was not exhausted from trying to labor before the c/s and was able to get up and moving around a lot sooner.

aforst

Your anxiety is very normal.  I was very anxious right before my repeat c-section w/ DS2.  DS1 was an emergency, it was stressful and terrifying.  The recovery was hard. DS2's c-section was a breeze!  It was so much more laid back, joyful and pleasant.  It's still surgery, which always sucks, but it was so much nicer than my first experience.  The recovery was light years easier too.  I really hope this will be the case for you as well!  GL!!!

luckymom3

Oh I have so anxiety already (I have until Feb!)!

But much like you, I had a 30 hour labor which resulted in a c-section. I was tired, full of fluids and just wanted to shower! Recovery was easy but I am just hoping for an easier time!

Plus, MIL keeps bringing up her horrible 3rd c-section experience (she almost died) and it is giving me MAJOR anxiety. Ugh

emaddock

Nope--totally stressed out about it!  You are not alone.

newly_naugler

I'm nervous too. I had an emerg one after 40 hours of labor. I keep telling myself it will easier this time because I won't be so tired from pushing.

aprilglo22

Your situation sounds just like mine with my last!!  Good to know I'm not alone and loved reading all the positive posts.  I am only 7wks3days but am dreading my csection if I can't do a vbac!! 

Natesmom05

I'm having my 4th c/sec in a couple of months & I've been nervous with each one, prob more so this one. You are not alone.