Questions to ask about a C-Section (even if you’re not planning on having one)

QUESTIONS TO ASK ABOUT A C SECTION - EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT PLANNING ON HAVING ONE*
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Save this post so that you can consult it next time you see your obstetrician⠀⠀
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🏥 Who can be in the operating room with me? Your husband, birth partner, doula? It’s always good to ask who is allowed as hospital policies vary. ALWAYS discuss this with your obstetrician If you are hoping to have two people with you (eg your partner and a doula for example)⠀⠀
💉 What type of anaesthesia will I have? Believe it or not there are a fee options - an epidural or a spinal block. Discuss the pros and cons of both with your obstetrician.⠀⠀
😬 What kind of risks are there? A c section is major surgery so obviously there are risks involved. Make sure you know and understand them all...⠀⠀
⏰ How long will it take? Surgery usually takes between 45 mins to an hour but for a planned c section your doctor may want you in the hospital HOURS before the surgery. ⠀⠀
🪒 Will I be shaved? If you’ve forgotten to shave “down there”’for a few days then there is the chance that the midwife/doctor will do it for you as it gives the doctor a clean area to make an incision. Don’t worry - they won’t give you a Hollywood!⠀⠀
🥤 Can I eat or drink before surgery - most doctors will tell you not to eat or drink 8 hours prior to a scheduled c section, as food in your digestive tract can cause complication and/or make you feel a bit sick. If you end up having an emergency c section, don’t panic If you have eaten - just make sure you let your obstetrician know.⠀⠀
🧵 How will I be stitched up? Depending on your medical history, you will likely be closed up with either dissolvable stitches or staples. Make sure you know which option is available to you. ⠀⠀
👶 can I hold my baby in the operating theatre? It’s imperative to ask this question as soon as possible as lots of hospitals have different policies. If skin to skin straight away is important to you, make sure you have made this clear.⠀⠀
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Other questions to consider asking⠀⠀
✔️ What will my c section scar look like?⠀⠀
✔️ Is it normal to bleed afterwards?⠀⠀
✔️ Can I take pain relief if I am breastfeeding⠀⠀
✔️ When can I exercise again?⠀