Planning For A C-Section
Planning For Baby
Most women build their birth plan in terms of a vaginal delivery. They hire a birthing coach, create lengthy birth plans determining everything from what kind of music will be playing to who will be in the room during the birth. However, there are some instances when delivering “naturally” is not an option. Sometimes a caesarean section is necessary for the safety of both mother and baby. Today though, many women actually opt for a c-section rather than face labor. It has become something of a trend established by Hollywood actresses over recent years.
When a woman is going to have her baby through a planned caesarean birth, then most of the arrangements are made around hospital and doctor schedules and procedures. However, even though the birth will be a planned caesarean, there’s no reason you can’t make some plans. There are certain factors you will have control over and by asserting control, you can be more involved in the birth of your baby.
Some Things You Should Know About Doctors’ Schedules
Most doctors prefer to perform the surgery between weeks 38 and 39 and in most cases the c-section is planned for about a week before the actual due date. The latitude for planning comes in when the doctor does not have a specific day of the week on which he will operate. This allows for a wider range of dates for the birth. If possible, a Monday or Tuesday is the best day of the week to have a caesarean because such specialists as lactation consultants and others are in the hospital. Many doctors like to perform surgery very early in the morning, and while it may seem a bit much to undergo surgery at 7:00am, the earlier the surgery, the better. In the early hours there is less chance of an emergency cropping up which could delay things.
Just Because It’s A C-Section…
Just because it’s a c-section, don’t assume a birth plan isn’t necessary. You can still have the kind of birth you want, but you need to plan for it. Some thoughts to consider include determining who will cut the cord. Will you cut it or will your partner? Would you like to be able to touch the baby or would you like to watch the birth? Who will be present with you during the birth? What about medications or sedatives before the operation? Epidural or spinal? Will you breastfeed? If so, when do you want to start? Will the baby be presented to you bathed or will you hold your baby immediately at birth?
Deal With Your Fears So They Don’t Rob You Of The Joy Of Birth
Fears concerning anesthetic can and should be discussed before the surgery with the anesthetist. This person will be with you throughout the operation and by becoming better acquainted you will be able to ask for help if you need it.
Talk with your doctor and ask questions if there are fears or concerns you have going into the surgery. By having the fears assuaged, you can enjoy this most wonderful moment in your life.
