Scheduled C-Section: What You Need to Know

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 Preparing for Your Scheduled C-Section


- Plan Ahead: Arrange childcare for older children, pet care, and transportation home from the hospital.

- Fasting Guidelines: Follow your provider’s instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before surgery.

- Medications: Review all medications with your provider; some may need to be paused.

- Preoperative Shower: Use the special antiseptic wash provided by your hospital to reduce infection risk.

- Comfort Items: Pack loose-fitting clothing, slip-on shoes, toiletries, and your favorite pillow or blanket for recovery.

- Birth Preferences: Discuss gentle C-section options, such as clear drapes, immediate skin-to-skin, and delayed cord clamping.


 What to Bring


- For You:

  - Comfortable robe and nursing-friendly tops.

  - High-waisted underwear to avoid irritation near the incision.

  - Compression socks to reduce swelling.

  - Breastfeeding supplies: nipple cream, nursing pads, and a pillow.

- For Baby:

  - Newborn clothing in varying sizes.

  - Swaddle blankets and a hat.

  - Car seat (hospital staff will check installation).


 What to Expect During Surgery


- Arrival: Check in at the hospital and meet the surgical team. You’ll have an IV placed and possibly a catheter inserted.

- Anesthesia: Typically, a spinal block or epidural is used, so you’ll be awake but numb from the waist down.

- Procedure: The surgery typically lasts about 45-60 minutes. Your partner may be allowed in the operating room.

- Meeting Baby: After delivery, you’ll likely have a few moments to meet your baby before recovery.


 Recovery Process


- In the Hospital: Expect to stay 2-4 days. Pain management, mobility exercises, and breastfeeding support will be key focuses.

- First Few Weeks at Home:

  - Limit heavy lifting and focus on rest.

  - Keep the incision clean and dry; avoid soaking in baths until cleared.

  - Watch for signs of infection (e.g., redness, fever, or drainage).


 Caring for Your Incision


- Monitor Daily: Look for any swelling, redness, or unusual drainage.

- Support Your Abdomen: Use a pillow to brace the incision when coughing, sneezing, or laughing.

- Scar Care: Once healed, consider gentle scar massage to improve mobility and appearance (consult your provider).


 Breastfeeding After a C-Section


- Comfortable Positions: The football hold or side-lying positions can minimize pressure on your incision.

- Milk Supply: Skin-to-skin contact and frequent nursing help establish milk supply.

- Get Help: Lactation consultants can provide additional support if needed.


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Need More Help?

Dogwood Doula Birth Services is here to support you every step of the way! Visit us at linktr.ee/dogwooddoula or connect with us on Facebook to learn about our monthly live Q&A sessions and other services. Our doula care is fully covered under most Medicaid plans with prior confirmation, ensuring no cost to you.


Contact us today to prepare for a smoother, more confident C-section experience!

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