C-section : any hints?

[Simmone]

Hi all. I have just been scheduled for a c-section next week as my bub decided to turn and become breach. I will be 38 weeks. I have gone and bought big granny undies and loose pants, but wondering about any other advice. Bub has been head down and moved into the pelvis so I had no idea it could still flip. But I got really sick and I think that is when it moved. Probably from the dehydration and cramping I had at 36 weeks. I am still a little in shock but would love to hear from you. Earliest it will happen is 4 days. Latest one week. Still waiting to hear where they can get me in!!

[SC-Sherb]

Hi Simmone. I've had 2 c-sections. My first one was with my DD who we found out was breech at around 37 weeks (bum down). We didn't schedule a c-section at that point because my OB was hoping that she would turn. My water broke 5 days before her due date, went to the hospital, he was on duty, tried to turn her but she wouldn't budge and I made the decision to do the c-section. She was out with 2 hours of making the decision.

So, what can I tell you. Yes, I was very sore afterwards but if you keep on top of the medication (especially when you go home) it's totally bearable. A pillow can be your best friend - against your belly for coughing, feeding the baby, etc... Get up as soon as they want you to to start moving around, it does help.

I had stitches inside and out with DD, which I felt were better and more comfortable. I had staples on the outside with DS#2 (had asked for stiches, but whatever) and those 5 days waiting after I came home to get them out were torture. I found them very very uncomfortable. If you can have help for the first week or 2, then get it.

Once you are home, I stayed on the main floor of our house for the first few weeks. I found stairs to be too much and tried not to go up or down more than once a day. I kept a basket on the main floor with all essentials - sleepers, undershirts, diapers, wipes, creams, bibs, receiving blankets, etc.... I also had the packn'play on the floor and I slept on the couch for the first couple of weeks because I couldn't handle the bed.

After about 2 weeks, I started feeling much better and more mobile. Bleeding was about 3 to 4 weeks with both. Just remember, that the more you are up around and doing stuff, the more you bleed. That's what I found. Also, swelling in the first week is very normal. Drink lots and lots of water the first week and it will slowly go away.

Again, I cannot stress enough about continuing with meds when you are home. My OB said to take the Tylenol/Advil every 4 hours for 2 weeks. I missed a couple of doses one day and it really hit me.

The stretch underwear that I go tin the hospital were really great for the first few days. Anything that was not near the incision works best. Stock up on sanitary pads beforehand.

I hope this helps and if you have any other questions or I missed something, just ask! Good luck hun and just enjoy your babe when he/she is born!

[Simmone]

Thanks so much. Some great advice there. Still nervous but getting use to the idea. I have DH and my mum to help and no stairs seems pain meds are a must. I'll be in hospital the first five days as well so hopefully by the time I go home things may settle a little. So so did not expect this!

[DMS721]

I have also had 2 c sections. It really wasn't that bad. Since Ive never had a vaginal birth I didn't know any different. I actually recovered faster than some of my friends who had bad tears. The advice Sherb gave you is great. They will want to get you up 12 hours later, even if it is the middle of the night. Walk as much as you can, but don't over do it. By the time I came home I was only taking Advil, although they did give me stronger stuff. Once you are holding your baby in your arms you won't care how he was delivered!

Dawn

[Simmone]

Thanks dawn. I've been booked for Tuesday, so feeling better now I have a set date. Hoping I'm not on crazy meds for a long time. I'm also taking a homeopathic remedy to help soft tissue trauma do hopefully that will also help healing!! Appreciate the advice!

[SC-Sherb]

Good Luck on Tuesday Simmone! So exciting hun! You're gonna meet your little one in just 4 days!!!!

I had a vaginal birth with my DS#1 and it was long, painful and very tiring. I didn't get any stitches but I did tear a bit (he had a huge head LOL) and recovery was slow. Yes, the pain was different but sitting was a chore for a couple of weeks. I also had gall bladder issues and pancreatitis when he was 3 mths old and spent a week in the hospital. Now, that was pain. Let me tell you, I would have much preferred having a c-section than dealing with that.

Yes, you will have some pain and discomfort but you will be able to get around. No heavy lifting, except the baby and just don't try to push things too much. If anything, that's what you have to remember that even though you have a baby too look after, you also had major surgery, so, just don't overdo it. If you are feeling tired and sore, take a break and have your DH or someone tend to the baby for a bit.

I was in the hospital for 4 days with DD and only 3 days with DS#2. The 2nd c-section I knew what to expect, so, I was better prepared. Again, I just didn't like the staples.

And when you are settled and have a moment, drop in and let us know how you both are doing! Good luck hun!

[Simmone]

Hi ladies!! My boy arrived two days ago this afternoon the c-section went really well and I'm amazed at how fast you recover. I have gone from barely able to move yesterday morning to getting in and out of bed and walking last night. All your advice has been great. Although it was scary, I am just awed that our bodies can heal so fast (why I should be after producing such a beautiful thing I don't know!).

Out of curiosity any advice on first bowel movements? I'm yet to have one and I'm pretty sure it needs to happen soon?

Oh and I'm totally in love!

[Simmone]

Oh and btw. They put in disintegrating stitches. So no staples and I don't need to have them removed. As the nurse said - a piece of art

[KimAtFertilityAuthority]

Hi Simmone,

Congratulations and speedy recovery! As I was scrolling through the advice left by other members, I kept thinking...someone tell her to buy Colace (or the equivalent)! The hospital should be able to give you something to help you go as they do not want you to strain.

Good luck!

Kim

[SC-Sherb]

Congrats Simmone! Very happy for you hun and yes, it's amazing how fast we heal, BUT, don't overdo it. I know you feel like you can just go on normally but you did have major surgery and it needs time to fully heal. So, take it easy when you are home and take your pain meds.

I agree with Kim, colace or the hospital can give you something to help. You don't want to strain too much but the first one is a little nerve wracking.

And I'm sure that you are totally in love! It's amazing isn't it? Enjoy your new little man hun and congrats again!